Low-fat diets reached their peak popularity in the ‘80s and ’90s, but new research has seen an increasing emphasis on good fats, like that found in olive oil and avocados, to promote overall health. The science of nutrition has effectively shifted from an “all fat is bad” mentality to choosing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats over saturated.

However, there are some cases when a low-fat diet is warranted and even perhaps protective against diseases such as breast cancer. New research even suggests breast cancer isn’t the only cancer that can be kept at bay with dietary adjustments. 

A study that will be published in the July 2024 issues of The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging by researchers associated with the Chongqing Medical University in China, aimed to determine if a low-fat diet could also reduce the risk of lung cancer. They used data from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial which sought to determine the effects of screening for cancers over a large population. Approximately 98,459 people with an average age of 65 met the requirement for inclusion from the larger PLCO study in the current study. The participants had all completed a detailed food questionnaire and had never been diagnosed with cancer. They were followed up after an average of eight years for cancer incidence. 

Those who adhered best to the low-fat diet, which is considered 30% or less of the diet, had the lowest rate of lung cancer. Not surprisingly, those who smoked were more likely to develop lung cancer, and this group also saw the most benefit from adopting a low-fat diet.

The type of fat mattered as well. Those who reported consuming more saturated fat were more likely to develop lung cancer than those who included monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat in their diets. “Overall, our study underscores the potential role of dietary patterns, specifically low-fat diet (LFD), in reducing the risk of lung cancer, while emphasizing the need for further research to validate these findings and inform public health interventions,” said researchers.

People who would like to reduce their risk of lung cancer shouldn’t rely on a low-fat diet alone for protection. The first step for smokers is quitting smoking, which is the highest risk factor for the world’s deadliest cancer. If you smoke, it is wise to eat a low-fat diet that emphasizes healthier fats and to work with your healthcare provider on a cessation plan. If you don’t smoke, speak with a healthcare professional about adopting the right diet for your health goals. 

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Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a substance naturally produced by glands in the ear canal. It serves critical functions: Trapping dust, dirt, bacteria, bugs (really!) and other foreign particles to protect the sensitive inner ear, and moisturizing the ear canal to prevent dryness and irritation. Despite its essential role in maintaining ear health, many of us rush to remove earwax—understandably, as nobody likes the idea of excessive wax buildup.

We spoke with an otorhinolaryngologist (commonly known as an ear, nose, and throat or “ENT” doctor) with more than four decades of experience: Greg Roscoe, MD, DMD, MBA, from DuBois, PA. Responding to how often to clean the ears, Dr. Roscoe highlights the need for regular ear examinations. He draws a comparison to regular optometry checks, stating, “Just as you regularly have your eyes checked, your ears also need routine examinations.” This is particularly important to monitor and manage earwax.

Brian Taylor, AuD, the senior director of audiology at Signia, reassures that having earwax is completely normal, but issues can arise “when wax obstructs the eardrum or becomes impacted within the ear canal.”

Often, these complications are ironically caused by our own attempts to clean our ears. Ear doctors widely discourage the use of objects like cotton swabs inside the ear canal. Maybe you’ve heard that in severe cases, this can cause a punctured eardrum—but Dr. Roscoe adds that these objects can actually defeat the purpose of cleaning your ears by pushing the wax deeper, which may potentially cause compaction and blockage.

These two ear health experts share the best practices for ear hygiene and identify the safest approaches to cleaning your ears.

Should you clean your ears at all?

The human ear is a self-cleaning organ equipped with tiny hairs called cilia, which help move wax particles out of the ear. “Using soap and water with a washcloth to gently clean the outer ear is usually sufficient to keep your ears clear of excess wax,” advises Dr. Taylor.

Dr. Roscoe recommends against trying to remove earwax from within the ear canal on your own. Instead, it’s safer to have a healthcare provider inspect and assess your ears to determine the best course of action. This perspective is supported by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, which recommends that, in the absence of any complications, earwax should not be removed manually. If your ears are functioning normally, there’s no need to interfere with the natural process. Over-cleaning the inside of the ear can strip away your body’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and possible infection.

If you don’t clean your ears, there is a risk that wax can accumulate and lead to discomfort or hearing problems. To know if your ears need cleaning, watch for the following signs outlined by Daniel Troast, AuD, an audiologist at HearUSA:

• Pain in the ears
• A sensation of fullness or pressure
• Feeling as though your ears are plugged or underwater
• Decreased hearing ability
• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
• Itchiness in the ear canal

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for an evaluation. Sometimes, what may seem like an earwax issue could actually be an underlying hearing problem.

How often should you clean your ears?

You should clean your ears daily, focusing solely on the outer part with a washcloth. Dr. Roscoe adds, “Periodic examinations by an ENT, ranging from every three to six months, are ideal.” The need for these visits can vary, as some individuals may produce more earwax than others. Regular check-ups ensure that any potential issues are addressed quickly and prevent the risks associated with over-cleaning. For those without earwax problems, an annual check-up is adequate. When removal is necessary, your healthcare provider will use clinical methods like manual extraction with a curette or gentle irrigation.

Factors that can increase the need for more frequent ear cleaning include having narrow ear canals, which are more likely to trap wax, or being over age 75, as the ear’s natural self-cleaning abilities can decline with age. Regular earbud users also face a higher risk of wax buildup, as inserting earbuds can push wax deeper into the ear canal. (Also, never share your earbuds.) Individuals with certain skin conditions, such as eczema or some autoimmune diseases, might require more frequent cleanings.

How to clean your ears safely

“The big takeaway is that you want your healthcare provider to look in your ears because it’s very hard to see in your ear canal,” explains Dr. Roscoe.

Below are some tips from experts on how to manage and soften earwax safely between professional visits:

1. Use a washcloth

During your daily hygiene routine, gently wipe around the outer ear with a washcloth. This is especially important for parents to do for their children, as inserting any object into the ear poses a risk of puncturing the eardrum.

2. Natural jaw movements

Dr. Troast points out that what helps draw earwax out of the canal are the natural movements of your jaw from talking and eating. Often, these natural motions are all that’s needed for the wax to expel itself.

3. Soften wax with over-the-counter drops

Consider using over-the-counter earwax softeners that contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps dissolve the wax. Apply these drops two to three times a day for five to ten minutes. Afterwards, gently flush the ear with warm water. This routine can be followed for about four to five days.

The side effects of flushing your ears with water include discomfort or dizziness if the water is not at body temperature. Always use warm water to avoid stimulating the vestibular nerve, which is associated with balance and motion.

4. Opt for different headphones

Switch from in-ear buds to circumaural headphones that sit around the ear. This change can prevent the direct pressure on the ear canal that often leads to wax buildup.

5. Consult your healthcare provider

They can evaluate the effectiveness of your at-home cleaning methods, assist with thorough cleaning if necessary, and develop strategies to prevent future wax buildup.

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

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A recall is a preventive action that manufacturers or regulatory agencies take to remove products from the market that may threaten public health and safety. In 2023, such measures led to the recall of over 300 food products after 12 outbreaks caused 1,100 illnesses and resulted in six deaths, as detailed in a report by the US PIRG Education Fund.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates about 78% of the US food supply, which encompasses all food products except for those like meat, poultry, and certain fish and egg products regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Recalls under the USDA’s jurisdiction increased by 31% in 2023 compared to the previous year.

Recalls are typically initiated when prohibited substances are detected in products. In 2023, allergens caused nearly half of all recalls, while harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria accounted for more than a quarter. It is important to note that health officials believe the actual number of affected individuals is likely higher than what is reported, as many cases of food poisoning resolve without medical treatment or are not formally diagnosed, which means they go unreported.

Given these risks, staying informed and vigilant about product recalls is crucial for your safety. Ahead, find what you need to know about the recall process and the steps to take if you find yourself affected.

What is a recall?

A product recall occurs when an item, such as a food product, does not meet the safety standards set by regulatory agencies like the FDA or USDA. This means the product could potentially be harmful. A recalled product can pose significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, or those undergoing medical treatment.

Recalls can occur for several reasons, including:

• Contamination with harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
• Presence of dangerous foreign objects like glass, metal shards, plastic pieces, or rodent droppings.
• Incorrect labeling that omits a major allergen, such as peanuts or shellfish.

Recalls extend beyond food products. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does research, training, and enforcement on safety standards related to broader product categories like apparel (such as children’s clothing that violates flammability standards), furniture, toys and recreational equipment. Meanwhile, the FDA also manages recalls involving a wide variety of consumer items, including cosmetics, pet foods, medications, medical devices, biologics (like vaccines), radiation-emitting products, and veterinary drugs.

One exception consumers might practice extra judiciousness with is related to medication recalls. Chris Snyder, PharmD, a registered pharmacist with the Cleveland Clinic, offers this important advice: “It may be more harmful to stop taking the medication. Take the medication as prescribed and contact your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.”

The FDA says that in 1969, they established regulations known as Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) to ensure that products are manufactured safely and consistently. These regulations were updated in 2015 with additional safeguards according to the requirements of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which considers the different risks associated with various types of food.

The government recommends using lot numbers to aid in the tracking and recall process. These numbers help monitor specific batches of products from their production to their sale locations, facilitating identifying and recalling a particular batch if a problem is detected.

How to interpret the level of potential hazard from a recalled product

The FDA explains that a recall is typically categorized into one of three government-assigned classifications based on the level of risk the product poses:

• Class I Recall: This is the most severe recall type, issued for products that could cause serious health issues or death.
• Class II Recall: This type involves products that may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects.
• Class III Recall: This is for products that are unlikely to cause health problems but fail to comply with FDA labeling or manufacturing regulations.

Can recalled items still be sold?

It is illegal for retailers to sell recalled products. When a recall is announced, stores must immediately remove the affected items from their shelves. Selling recalled products can result in serious legal consequences, such as fines and sanctions. To ensure the products you’re buying are safe, you can visit the following websites:

• FDA Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts
• FDA Drug Recalls
• CPSC Recalls

Most major retail and grocery chains publish recalls on their websites. If you’re a regular visitor to Walmart, Costco, Trader Joe’s, Kroger, or others, you can check their sites or subscribe to email lists to receive notification of product recalls.

Can you ignore a product recall?

It is essential not to ignore a product recall. Acting on recall announcements helps protect yourself and your family from potential health hazards.

While not every recalled product poses an immediate health risk, the potential long-term consequences of using or consuming unsafe products can be severe. By staying informed about recalls and adhering to safety guidelines, consumers contribute to enforcing food safety regulations and help ensure that manufacturers and suppliers adhere to high safety and quality standards.

What do I do if I bought or consumed a recalled product?

Here’s what you should do if you have consumed a product that was later recalled:

• Assess the type of recall: Understand the reason for the recall, and follow all instructions to determine necessary steps. For instance, if the recall is due to an allergen, you should monitor for any allergic reactions.
• Contact your healthcare provider: If you experience any symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, muscle aches, vomiting, and confusion, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider immediately.
• Report your experience: Reporting to the FDA’s MedWatch or the CDC can help authorities better understand the impact of the recalled product and prevent further issues.

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What is brain freeze?

Scientifically known as sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia, brain freeze is caused by a rapid change in blood flow to the brain’s vessels when exposed to cold substances. Amaal Starling, MD, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic, describes the process behind brain freeze: “There are blood vessels that are inside the mouth in the back of the throat, and then when they are rapidly exposed to something very cold, they constrict or become smaller,” Dr. Starling says. “This initial constriction is quickly followed by dilation. When those blood vessels rapidly change size like that, it activates the pain receptors.”

Wojtek Mydlarz, MD, an assistant professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at Johns Hopkins, adds that brain freeze is a type of “referred pain,” where physiological changes in one part of the body cause pain in another. This experience is so severe because this sudden dilation sends a pain signal through the trigeminal nerve, extending into the midface and forehead. The brain freeze sensation originates from the tiny muscles around the blood vessels in the palate tightening and relaxing, yet the pain is experienced in the head. Although these intense bursts of pain can be sharp, they are brief and not harmful.

On a hot, sunny day, it can feel tough not to swill down a frozen treat in one massive gulp. But anyone who’s ever experienced the sharp, piercing headache we call brain freeze knows how quickly the necessity can creep up to chill on how fast you’re ingesting that frosty fun.

Also called a “cold-stimulus headache” among medical professionals, learn the facts on brain freeze…including why some people never get it.

How long does brain freeze last?

Brain freeze typically lasts less than five minutes in 98% of cases. For some, the sensation may only persist for a few seconds. The duration can also vary slightly based on how long the palate is exposed to the cold and an individual’s sensitivity to temperature changes.

Why do we get brain freeze?

Dr. Mydlarz says brain freeze may be a survival reflex, where the blood vessels automatically constrict to help maintain the body’s core temperature.

Additionally, research has shown that people who suffer from migraines are more likely to experience brain freeze pain. This increased susceptibility is likely due to several factors:

• Reactive blood vessels: Migraine sufferers often have blood vessels that react more intensely or quickly to stimuli, such as the sudden cold from an ice cream or cold drink.

• Sensitive trigeminal nerve: Those with migraines may have a heightened sensitivity in the trigeminal nerve, which is involved in the pain signaling for migraines and brain freeze. This sensitivity makes them more prone to pain triggered by rapid temperature changes in the mouth.

• Lower pain threshold: The neural pathways that transmit pain in people with migraines tend to be more easily activated, meaning they can experience pain from stimuli that might not affect others as severely.

Why do some people never get brain freeze?

Some people may have anatomical differences in their palate, making them less susceptible to this painful reaction. Variations in pain sensitivity can also play a role—some individuals simply don’t feel the pain as intensely.

Another factor could be the speed at which they consume cold foods and drinks. Those who eat or drink slowly allow their palate more time to gradually adjust to the temperature change, reducing the likelihood of triggering a brain freeze.

Can brain freeze cause brain damage?

Despite the intense pain it can cause, brain freeze does not lead to brain damage. The discomfort is merely a temporary response to a cold stimulus and has no long-term structural or functional effects on the brain. The Cleveland Clinic assures that brain freeze does not require medical attention, and hospitalization for it is extremely unlikely. However, if you frequently experience long-lasting headaches or if your brain freeze persists unusually long, consult your healthcare provider.

How do you stop a brain freeze?

To alleviate brain freeze, press your tongue against the roof of your mouth to warm it up, or sip something warm to counter the cold effect. The most effective strategy for prevention is to avoid triggering it in the first place.

Dr. Starling advises that when consuming cold drinks, use a smaller straw (preferably an eco-friendly reusable straw), and drink slowly to minimize the likelihood.

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It’s LOL-worthy, but also apparently fact: If you’ve ever related to the social media influencers who say their partners’ willingness to pitch in on housework is the hottest form of foreplay, University of Texas psychology researchers have identified a strong link between sharing the routine of everyday tasks and enjoying a satisfying sex life.

Job loss, sickness, a death in the family, a child who’s struggling: These might seem like factors that can place massive burden on a relationship, but new research suggests “the small stuff” is an even bigger strain. A University of Texas at Austin study has found that daily stressors are one of the most pervasive factors that are getting in the way of having a consistently satisfying romantic life.

That may not be a news flash, but it’s fresh fodder to drive home a point. The study, published in the journal Personality and Psychology Bulletin on March 25, 2024 and conducted by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin, sought to analyze how stress affected couples’ intimacy, both sexually and in other physically expressive ways.

To do this they recruited 144 recently married, heterosexual, cis-gender couples with no children. Approximately 18 months and 30 months after getting married, the participants were asked to asked to complete a two-week-long daily survey to answer questions about their stress levels and instances of intimacy.

What the researchers found about stress and intimacy, in general, was not a surprise. “Same-day hassles appeared to be a more potent predictor of couples’ day-to-day sexual behaviors than the experience of ongoing stressors,” they noted. Increased stress meant less sex and fewer moments of physical affection for couples—however, the level of stress that led to intimacy issues was much lower than they expected, peaking at low to moderate levels.

In other words, catastrophic events didn’t lessen intimacy and sexual activity the way those everyday “hassles” did.

The researchers explain this by saying, “When recuperating from a stressful day, individuals are more likely to spend this critical time emotionally and physically withdrawing from their partner, which can hamper positive exchanges within the relationship.” Women appeared to be more likely to forgo connection due to these pressures.

The research team says this echoes research from earlier in this century that also found “women are less likely to engage in sexual activity on days in which they experience more stress” and “that women may act as a ‘gatekeeper’ for the occurrence of sexual activity within the relationship,” suggested researchers. 

If it sounds like a tale as old as time, it’s also a trend that’s arguably gotten tired—and perhaps a good reminder for both parties in a couple to jump in and share the load so that there’s more mutual relaxation time…but also to remember that in today’s fast-moving world, it’s important to pause and remember that supportive together time is one of the most proven ways to ensure long, healthy years. Life doesn’t begin only after the laundry’s folded.

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The prostate is a small gland located in the male reproductive system that’s essential for producing seminal fluid. When it’s healthy, the prostate is shaped similarly to a walnut, but prostate cancer occurs when cells within this gland begin to multiply uncontrollably.

While many prostate cancers progress slowly and may not cause significant harm, sometimes going unnoticed, there are aggressive forms that can spread rapidly. Prostate cancer ranks as the second-most-prevalent cancer among men in the United States, affecting one in eight men during their lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2024, around 300,000 new cases would be diagnosed, and more than 35,000 men are expected to die from the disease.

Fortunately, prostate cancer screenings are improving to become less invasive, and less painful.

Symptoms of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer symptoms may be non-existent for most individuals with early-stage (stage I) prostate cancer, explains MD Anderson urologic oncologist Lisly Chéry, MD: “For prostate cancer to cause symptoms, it may be at an advanced stage when it becomes harder to cure,” Dr. Chéry says. “That’s why prostate cancer screening is so important.”

Key prostate cancer symptoms to watch for include:

• Blood in urine

• Difficulty urinating

• Pelvic pain

• Frequent urination

• Weak urine stream

• Bone pain

• Blood in semen

• Painful or burning urination

• Difficulty in controlling urination

Prostate cancer risk factors

Several factors may elevate a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer, such as genetics, race, lifestyle choices, metabolism, and age. Prostate cancer tends to be more aggressive when diagnosed at a younger age. The average age for a prostate cancer diagnosis is 66, and typically, the older a man is at diagnosis, the less aggressive the disease tends to be.

Ryan Bergland, MD, a urologist at the Cleveland Clinic, explains, “Having a first-degree relative, [such as a father, brother, or son], with prostate cancer significantly increases risk.” One relative doubles the risk, while early-onset diagnosis in a relative before age 50 can quadruple the risk. Prostate cancer risk is also higher among those who are overweight, physically inactive, and have a poor diet, which can influence the severity and progression of the disease.

Screening protocols for prostate cancer

Screening for prostate cancer typically includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).

Here’s who needs prostate cancer screening, and when:

The American Cancer Society advises that men at average risk start screening at age 50. Men at higher risk, including African American men and those with a first-degree relative who was diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65, should begin screening at age 45. Men with multiple first-degree relatives who were diagnosed at an early age are recommended to start screening at age 40.

If your prostate-specific antigen levels are high, you may be referred for a biopsy to confirm whether it’s cancer, and your doctor will develop a treatment plan accordingly.

Prostate cancer treatment

“We’ve been using hormonal therapy for decades, but now we have second-line therapies and other treatments that can slow the disease down,” Dr. Bergland says. “It’s not farfetched to say that our ability to turn metastatic prostate cancer into more of a chronic disease than an acute disease for our patients is increasing every day.”

Additionally, researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a promising new urine test that can help differentiate between aggressive and non-aggressive prostate cancers, potentially decreasing the number of unnecessary biopsies.

Ahead, we share the story of Anthony T., a 58-year-old prostate cancer survivor from New York who shares the importance of health maintenance and regular screenings for prostate cancer, especially for those with a family history like his.

Here’s How I Knew I Had Prostate Cancer

By Anthony T., as told to Dr. Patricia Varacallo, DO

I consider myself fortunate. I’ve got a great primary care doctor who’s been vigilant about getting me screened for prostate cancer, especially given my family history. My dad died from the disease 24 years ago, and although it’s a tough subject, my doctor kept stressing the importance of early detection.

So I started getting my PSA levels checked in my late forties. All seemed well until my check-up in August 2021, when I turned 56. That’s when my doctor called to say my PSA was slightly elevated—just above four, when national guidelines have historically suggested a level of four or under is considered “normal.” My doctor suggested we should retest in a few months.

With my travel schedule for work, the follow-up bloodwork got away from me a little. By the time I got around to it that December, my PSA had jumped to almost seven.

I was stunned.

My doctor referred me to a local urologist, where I underwent an MRI and a biopsy. After gathering 15 prostate tissue samples—not a fun process for any prostate patient—in my case, every single one came back positive.

The experience during the procedure was far from comfortable, and I didn’t feel quite right about the care I was receiving. I decided to seek a second opinion at Mount Sinai.

My treatment for prostate cancer

To be honest, the thought of treatment scared me. The complications my father experienced from his prostate surgery weighed heavily on my mind, and I feared facing similar issues, but I learned that medical technology has come a long way.

My doctor explained that I had high-grade prostate cancer with a Gleason score of nine, which assesses the aggressiveness of prostate cancer based on microscopic appearance. This indicated that I had a more aggressive but localized cancer.

Given my age and family history, my doctor thoroughly reviewed all treatment options and recommended a robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy to remove my prostate. By February 2022, six months after that first mildly concerning blood test, I was set for surgery.

Despite my worries, I found comfort in knowing that recent medical advancements were on my side and that I was in capable hands. The surgery was successful, and afterward, my primary concern was the potential side effects, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

My doctor remained optimistic about this and discussed options, like penile rehabilitation, that could manage these issues if they arose. Further, I received a prescription for Cialis to help maintain blood flow to the penis. This is crucial as prolonged lack of blood flow can damage the muscles and tissues, affecting the ability to achieve erections independently.

Recovery after I was diagnosed with prostate cancer

My wife, Sherry, was truly incredible during my recovery, and helped me manage the catheter I required after the surgery. (A catheter is a flexible tube inserted into the bladder to help drain urine when you’re unable to do it on your own.) A week after my operation, the catheter was removed.

Within a month, I had no issues with incontinence and no longer needed protective pads. I was also able to experience arousal, marking another important step in my recovery. My prostate-specific antigen levels were tested again about eight weeks after surgery, and my doctor called me and told me they were undetectable. At that point, I truly broke down in tears.

I am immensely grateful for the positive outcome, an opportunity my father unfortunately never had. I continue to keep a close eye on my health with regular blood tests every three months, and everything continues to look good. The advancements in medical technology have transformed the outlook for many, making treatments far more manageable.

I urge all men to prioritize their health and stay vigilant. Even without symptoms, it’s essential to be proactive with your health, as catching cancer early can make all the difference.

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Remember the days before we used olive oil, and instead primarily cooked in ingredients like butter, margarine, and vegetable oil? Thanks to popular influences like doctor talk shows, cooking TV, and Blue Zones research, we now understand that olive oil—rich in healthy fats and antioxidants—has been shown to reduce inflammation, protect the heart, and even help keep the skin stay looking young both when ingested and applied topically.

Research in 2023 found that this prized pantry staple seemed to provide another major benefit: Olive oil may fight dementia. Now a new study has taken that finding one step farther with another delicious discovery.

According to research published May 6, 2024 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Open Network, olive oil can add another achievement to its impressive list of benefits: It may serve as protective element against dying from dementia.

For the study, doctors the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, in partnership with researchers in China, analyzed data from two long-term studies on diet and health that began in 1990. They combined the statistics from 92,000 participants, with an average age of 56 at the study’s beginning, who noted their average consumption of olive oil from “Rarely” to greater than seven grams per day, which translates to one-and-three-quarter teaspoons.

The researchers compared how the participants’ consumption of olive oil over nearly 30 years affected their likelihood of dying from dementia-related diseases. Olive oil intake was assessed every four years via a questionnaire that ascertained a range of eating habits.

Participants who reported frequently using olive oil for uses such as cooking, salads, or dipping bread experienced the lowest rates of death from all types of dementia. Those who consumed at least seven grams per day were 28% less likely to die from dementia-related causes than those who never or rarely used olive oil.

In particular, the researchers say, replacing five grams per day of margarine and mayonnaise with the equivalent amount of olive oil was associated with an 8% to 14% lower risk of dementia mortality.

The protective factor appeared to show particular strength among women. The results were consistent even if participants were more genetically prone to developing dementia, and the effect remained strong regardless of other dietary choices.

Recently, some experts have been noting that what’s good for the heart also appears to show benefit for the brain. The researchers for this study echo that: “Beyond heart health, the findings extend the current dietary recommendations of choosing olive oil and other vegetable oils for cognitive-related health,” they commented.

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Similar to lifestyle practices like yoga and plant-based eating, manifestation is an approach that originated in ancient spiritual beliefs but has soared in popularity in recent years.

Thanks in part to influences like the 2006 book The Secret and inspirational speakers and authors such as Abraham Hicks, most modern teachings on how to manifest are based on the law of attraction. The law of attraction suggests that the best way to manifest something is to conjure the sensation of the emotional reward one imagines they’ll feel when they receive what they desire. Many law of attraction believers have shared success stories from the practice, which often involves techniques like emotional meditation.

But the metaphysical interpretation behind the law of attraction has been backed by relatively little science—until now. James Doty, MD is a Stanford University neurosurgeon and adjunct professor and the author of Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifesting and How It Changes Everything, out May 7, 2024.

With its fixation on past and potential dangers, the SNS (sympathetic nervous system) effectively shuts down our positive imagination, and we lose sight of what could be or what is possible, especially in terms of improving our lives and experiencing greater connection, fulfillment, and well-being. Without the power of our imagination, and without a curious, flexible, and open mind to consider its visions, we are deprived of the very engine that can get us out of the vicious cycle of negative experience and negative identity.

The paradox is that, through mental rehearsal and visualization, we are “reminding” ourselves of how the positive outcome will feel when we experience it in a moment to come. Our minds are literally going back to the future.

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From Taylor Swift and Lindsey Vonn to women of all backgrounds who, on some level, relate intimately to difficult personal situations, Mariska Hargitay could argue her fanbase is one of the most loyal in show business. As Law & Order: Special Victims Unit celebrates its 25th season, Hargitay celebrates a complementary career milestone: It’s been 20 years since she founded Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004. According to its website, the foundation “has been a leading national organization with a mission to transform society’s response to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, support survivors’ healing, and end this violence forever.”

Superfans may also be aware that outside her work playing Captain Olivia Benson, Hargitay once completed training as a rape-crisis counselor…and? She loves animals. (One of Taylor Swift’s cats is named Olivia Benson, and in turn during the 2023 leg of the Eras Tour, Hargitay announced on Instagram that she’d gotten a new cat and, in a mutual ode to Swift, had named it “Karma.”)

All these passions have culminated in her latest cause, for which Hargitay has teamed with Purina to unveil “Courageous Together”: A new statue by Kristen Visbal (pictured), the same artist who created the “Fearless Girl” statue in Lower Manhattan in 2017. With “Courageous Together,” Visbal depicts a woman and her dog, connected by a purple leash as they take a courageous first step forward—together—as survivors leaving their abuser. By raising awareness, Purina hopes to help drive fundamental change to the landscape of domestic violence services for survivors with pets, so no survivor has to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pet.

A representative for Purina tells us the statue was commissioned as part of the Purple Leash Project, an initiative led by Purina and the nonprofit, RedRover, that aims to help more domestic violence shelters become pet-friendly so that survivors with pets can escape abuse and recover together.

Currently, fewer than 20% of domestic violence shelters in the U.S. allow pets. “They say almost 50% of domestic violence victims delayed leaving because they couldn’t bring their dog,” Hargitay told us in an interview on May 6 about how for her, this latest undertaking is a long-needed way to promote awareness…and healing.

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The Healthy by Reader’s Digest: We’re pet lovers; we know you’re a pet lover—thanks for letting us share a photo of your dog and cat! Have you gotten to hear stories of the difference that it makes when an individual is able to leave an unsafe home with their pet?

Mariska Hargitay: Absolutely. Absolutely I have. The one that comes to mind is the woman crying to me saying—Oh, it gets me emotional—”If I hadn’t had my dog. If I hadn’t had my dog.” That’s what she said. She couldn’t even finish. But it was her lifeline. It was her lifeline, literally her lifeline. That’s why when this campaign came to me, I just thought it was profound and such a beautiful and human and kind and generous and necessary, deeply necessary, part of how we can support domestic violence survivors’ healing.

It speaks to feeling safe, and just the idea that a survivor would have to choose between her own safety and that of her pet is insane … So what Purina is doing is innovative and kind and generous, and then it’s like afterwards we go, “Wait, why didn’t we do this a long time ago? Why didn’t somebody think of it a long time ago? So the fact that we’re moving toward making shelters pet-friendly is exciting and just calms my heart and makes us all be able to exhale a little bit.

The Healthy: To stop and take stock of how adored you are, how so many people see you as a source of strength and compassion who helps them navigate their own experiences…what do you think that says about the world we women are living in?

Mariska Hargitay: Well, when I started Joyful Heart 20 years ago, one of the goals is obviously to support survivors’ healing, but also transform the way society sees them, transform the way how survivors are met. And unfortunately, there’s not enough information out there about the neurobiology of trauma. That’s one of the things that is most important to me: To educate the public, the general public, and also law enforcement because I’ve learned so much about it. The fracturing that goes on with somebody’s memory, the fight or flight response—I deal with this a little bit in my film that I made called I Am Evidence for HBO, and talked about the backlog of untested rape kids. But so many people misinterpret how a survivor responds because they make up something in their head like, “Well, it was a real rape, she would’ve fought back.”

They don’t understand yet: A trauma response and what it means to freeze. So I think that when more people educate themselves, and that’s what I say when people say, What can I do? What can I do? I say, talk about these issues. Bear witness, learn how to listen to someone, believe survivors, but also to learn about the neurobiology of trauma, to learn what happens when somebody is assaulted, when somebody is traumatized, when somebody feels like prey. What happens in the animal kingdom with a predator and prey? What does the prey do? Freeze. You freeze. One of the comments that I heard that was so—I mean, it just took me out, and it’s in the film. Somebody in law enforcement actually said this. This woman was gang raped, and he said, “Well, she just laid there, so she must have liked it.”

And you just go, Whoa.

It’s hard to comprehend that somebody would say this, or they would be that out of touch or clueless. Also people don’t understand about rape—that I don’t know exactly the statistic, but it’s mostly acquaintance rape and not stranger rape. So that is also something for hard for people to understand. Consent needs to be taught in every school by every father, by every human being alive. That’s why I’m just so excited to be teaming up with Purina, because we have like-minded missions and we want to support survivors’ healing and make the world a little safer and have a little more humanity in supporting each other.

The Healthy: All those years ago, did you sense that Olivia Benson was going to give you such a clear purpose in your own life? I think that’s what we all admire so much: You could have just gone to work and done your job, but you’ve made this your life’s work.

Mariska Hargitay: Thank you. Thank you for that. I was really blown away by the statistics, and when I learned about them in the first year, I just couldn’t believe that everybody wasn’t talking about it. It’s an epidemic and this kind of violence that’s perpetrated on women, and that’s been accepted by patriarchy, and the fact that people have been shy to talk about these issues—I’ve wanted to shine a big light on it my whole life. I was lucky enough to have this platform to talk about it.

And the way that we move forward as a society is to talk about it and change it and not accept it. The power of women’s voices is unstoppable, and it’s so beautiful in chorus. So beautiful. So it’s been really a gift for me to learn about this and need to respond this way. And I think Joyful Heart was my answer to being immersed in these issues and needing to do something about it, needing to share the weight and see how I could help and join in the chorus of all these amazing women and these amazing survivors that have come forward and told their stories.

And to help educate and learn, to listen and educate, help educate men so they can drop into their humanity and do things differently. Just because it’s always been done that way doesn’t mean that it’s right. So it’s a journey, and I think that as we keep talking about it loudly with conviction and lovingly, and we’re going to change it.

The Healthy: What is one self-care practice that you refuse to skip?

Mariska Hargitay: Well, I’m a big bath taker. I find that for me, I need water to settle my nervous system.

But I think that one of the biggest one is I only spend time with people that are good for my nervous system. That’s been a game-changer for me, of trusting my gut and trusting my intuition when I don’t feel right, no questions asked. I get out of the situation and I don’t spend time with the person because I trust my body’s wisdom, my body’s knowing. I trust my unconscious, all of that. And that’s been very honoring because listen: As women, we push through and constantly want to take care of everybody, but learning to have my own boundaries and that kind of self-care is making myself at least as important as the other person. That was a tough one for me.

Listening to my little quiet voice inside. That’s the way I want to encourage people to do, because if we’re real still and we listen, we know the answers.

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

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The Met Gala is one of the most iconic fashion events of the year—but perhaps the only task more tiring than donning that costume couture all night is to be one of the designers responsible for making sure the A-listers serve camera-worthy looks.

Christian Siriano is one of those fashion masters who’s grown to be a Met Gala fixture. Siriano tells us that just like the stars he dresses, when the night is over a designer needs his beauty sleep. Ahead of this year’s Met Gala, he partnered with sleep aid brand Unisom to tie in with this year’s Met Gala theme, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” Siriano is showcasing a custom creation, along with a few archival designs, which models will wear while “falling asleep” at famous landmarks throughout Manhattan.

Does the greatest height of fashion on the biggest night of fashion energize or exhaust this young legend? Here’s what Christian says.

The Healthy: Christian, is there any better look than the look of someone who’s well rested? I’m even thinking of how when I’ve had a good night’s sleep, I have more energy to pick an outfit I’ll feel really good in. How does sleep affect your confidence?

Christian Siriano: Yeah, it’s funny, because actually why I wanted to do this and why I wanted to work with Unisom is because I feel like it’s something that we don’t talk about enough and we forget that it is the most important thing, especially for me as a creative. If I don’t really sleep, I can’t be up at that 8 a.m. fitting or I can’t really focus on whatever I’m trying to create because I’m mentally blocked. So for me it’s super important. It’s something that me and my team really try to focus on. I’m like, “We are not staying in the office until 1 a.m. working on a dress.” We just don’t do it, and I think that’s because we’re more productive when we have sleep and we focus. I hope people think about that.

The Healthy: Fashion is clearly a way to embrace our most authentic selves, no doubt among LGBTQ+ people. One great example of how you’ve illustrated this was your iconic tuxedo gown for Billy Porter. Can you talk a bit about how aligning fashion with identity can help someone’s mental wellness?

Christian Siriano: I really do think that clothes are emotional—they can be very emotional—and I think it’s sometimes more important than we think. With Billy that night, Billy really wanted to be authentically Billy. I think being in something that was feminine and masculine—Is it a gown, is it a tuxedo? What is it?—really, really kicked off a global conversation since obviously it was at the Oscars and the first time any kind of man had ever worn a dress [there].

But I think it was very important for our culture and our world to see that there are no rules. We should be able to wear what we want to wear, and how we present. We should be able to wear what is comfortable or feels good on our skin or our body. I don’t think there is this higher power saying what we should be doing. I’m glad that this generation now is changing that, and I’m trying to do that. I love that it can be anyone and anything and you can wear whatever you want to wear. That’s kind of why I’m still loving fashion more so than ever. 

The Healthy: How do you prep for the Met Gala…and how do you unwind after?

Christian Siriano: I really actually do focus on the person I’m working with. That’s kind of what’s funny. I feel like that’s usually my goal. I want to make sure that they feel as confident as possible because really it’s them that everyone’s looking at and not really as much about me, but it’s more about my work and how we present it to the world.

Even this shoot that we’re doing with Unisom that’s on such an important fashion day and we’re going to be shooting all over the streets of New York and on all the steps of these iconic places, and we want it to feel fashion and beautiful and romantic, but also so powerful. Then at the end of the night, honestly, I hope that we get to just have a little bit of fun because it is a lot of pressure and stress too, and you really want to unwind. And then I will be sleeping very much. As much as possible. 

The Healthy: So important! Would you agree that our collective aesthetic, even in traditionally polished settings, has grown more relaxed post-pandemic? We think it’s kind of fun to see people making choices, like pairing sneakers with business clothes. We’re curious what you think this says about the time we’re living in and if there are any looks that you’re particularly loving. 

Christian Siriano: I definitely see that world, but I think in my world, what happened in the pandemic for us was we got the total opposite shift afterward. People wanted to go so glamorous because they felt, I think, a bit trapped. It has been really fun, we’ve been making so many amazing things for people. Even red carpets, things that I’ve done in the last couple years have been more over the top than I’ve done in the past. That’s been really fun to see and kind of nice to play around with. And it’s definitely inspiring for us, at least in our studio. I feel like, listen, we’re not making jeans in a T-shirt. We’re making something a bit more. 

The Healthy: We know you travel a ton. In the past, we’ve covered some of the locations where science shows people can really de-stress. Are there any specific places you’re planning to spend some downtime this year? 

Christian Siriano: I’m definitely going to be in Paris a little bit more this year, which has been really something that I just wanted to do, and feel kind of inspired there. That’s kind of it. Then I go to my house in Connecticut and honestly, that’s where I can completely unwind and take a chill. 

The Healthy: Is there a self-care ritual that you can’t skip? 

Christian Siriano: Oh God, I wish. No, you know what it is? Honestly, the best part of my day is literally when I get into bed. We don’t have TVs in our bedroom, me and my boyfriend, and I sketch a lot at night, and it’s something I do before I go to sleep. It’s something that I actually have to do every night. Yeah, that’s kind of my own little self-care thing. 

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Intermittent fasting has taken the health world by storm, promising not just weight loss but also improved blood sugar control. While many still stick to the traditional three meals a day, emerging research underscores the significance of meal timing alongside meal content: When you eat could matter just as much as what you eat. In a society where every minute counts, sometimes the best time to eat is just what works for your schedule—but if you’re trying to lose weight, a new study suggests there’s one particular time of day that could be sabotaging your goals.

“Modern societal factors such as extended work hours, night shift work, and the pervasive use of electronic devices have facilitated late-night eating and sleep deprivation, thereby exacerbating circadian misalignment and its associated health risks,” the researchers said. Circadian misalignment “occurs when the body’s natural internal clock is disrupted, often due to habits like waking up and eating late at night,” they explained.

To explore, they gathered intel from a large Korean study and included 9,474 adults, with an average age of 54 years. The study included detailed statistics on meal frequency and timing and the proportion of calories eaten at each meal. It also tracked sleep duration and compared that to weight gain.

The follow-up was about three and a half years later, during which a little under 10% of participants developed obesity. The results had some very bad news for late-night snackers. Those who ate after 9 p.m. experienced a 20% higher rate of becoming obese, especially if they consumed a large portion of their calories for the day. Late-night snacking affected men more, resulting in a 34% increase in the likelihood of becoming obese.

Women, on the other hand, were more likely to accumulate belly fat from late-night snacking. Women also had the largest increase in obesity when they slept less than six hours.

Sleeping eight hours or more for both sexes was associated with a lower obesity rate.

Interestingly, both men and women ate on average just over four times per day, so the number of snacking or meal episodes didn’t seem to mean an excessive intake of calories. However, increased meal frequency did increase the likelihood of belly fat accumulation.

The researchers theorized that erratic eating and sleeping habits affect hormone levels that can lead to obesity. They called circadian misalignment one possible explanation behind these effects: “Our findings underscore the importance of addressing nighttime eating habits and sleep duration in obesity prevention.”

If snacking late at night prevents sleep or is because of it, there are ways to break the habit. Improve your sleep by putting down the phone, getting blackout shades, and cooling your room to a comfortable temperature. And if you must have a bite to eat before bed or in the middle of the night, make it a healthy snack to help you fall asleep. Nuts, low-fat pretzels, and hummus are good ideas for a quick nosh that won’t disrupt your blood sugar too much. Alternatively, try sipping on some chamomile tea or try tart cherry juice to wind down before bed.

Another idea is to be sure to eat regularly throughout the day. In the study, men who ate a larger lunch were less likely to become obese than those who ate the least for lunch. 

For more wellness updates, subscribe to The Healthy by Reader’s Digest newsletter and follow The Healthy on Facebook and Instagram. Keep reading:

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Nuts are one of the most reliable high-protein snacks as well as one of the foods that may extend your lifespan—but Friday, May 3, the US Food and Drug Administration published an announcement that two varieties of PLANTERS peanuts were being recalled “because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.”

Hormel is the company that owns PLANTERS and has issued a voluntary recall of “a limited number of two PLANTERS products” that reportedly were produced in April at a Hormel facility.

The two recalled PLANTERS products are the following:

• PLANTERS Honey Roasted Peanuts 4-ounce packages
  • UPC: 2900002097
  • Best if used by date: 04/11/2025

• PLANTERS Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts 8.75-ounce cans 
  • UPC: 2900001621
  • Best if used by date: 05APR26

The United States Food and Drug Administration states: “The products were shipped to Publix distribution warehouses in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina and to Dollar Tree distribution warehouses in South Carolina and Georgia.”

Friday’s announcement said there had been no reports of illness at the time of the announcement’s publication, and that all stores carrying the two PLANTERS products had been notified.

The FDA adds: “If a consumer has this product, they can discard the product or return it to the store where purchased for an exchange or full refund. If consumers have questions, they may contact Hormel Foods Customer Relations via email hereExternal Link Disclaimer, via chat at https://www.planters.com/External Link Disclaimer or at 1-800-523-4635, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Central Time, excluding holidays.” Consulting with a licensed medical professional is likely also advisable.

The FDA explains symptoms of listeria infection can include “high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.” They emphasize that listeria infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women and possibly the most serious “and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.”

The recall announcement states: “No other sizes, varieties, or other packaging configurations of PLANTERS brand products are included in this recall.”

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• French’s Just Recalled More than 3,000 Units of an Iconic Summer Grocery

If Heinz ketchup is the face of ketchup, then French’s is the face of yellow mustard. The iconic bright yellow squeeze bottle with the red flag is unmistakable. McCormick, the spice company that distributes French’s mustard, also packages other products under the French’s name, including the equally iconic fried onions.

How do they keep French’s crispy onion rings fresh? McCormick’s ingredients list suggests that crunchy but chewy, salty-then-sweet bite that often turns up on green bean casseroles and as a burger topping is just a fresh onion coated in wheat flour, salt, and the sugar substitute dextrose. If your spring cookout or picnic feels incomplete without these iconic onions, it’s important to check your cabinets for a specific lot that is being recalled. 

Based on what we know about staph transmission, it seems this report may have originated in an infected individual’s handling of food or packaging. That’s not certain, but according to a recent “enforcement report” published by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 2, 2024, a total of 3,456 packages, each containing 16 six-ounce containers, are being recalled due to the potential growth of staphylococcus aureus. This recall applies to products distributed solely in Arizona and Illinois. Notification of the recall was sent to customers and retailers on March 18, 2024, through various channels such as mail, fax, letter, press release, telephone, or in-person visits. The affected containers can be identified by the UPC 041500220208. The FDA has categorized this recall as Class II, indicating that while it could lead to illness, it is likely to be “temporary or medically reversible.”

If you possess the affected product, you are advised to either discard it or return it to the place of purchase. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately a quarter of the population naturally harbors staph bacteria on their skin and in their noses, which typically poses no issue unless it proliferates on food. Foods that are not cooked after handling, such as these fried onions, are more susceptible to excessive growth of the bacteria, which produce toxins capable of causing illness. Although cooking will eliminate any present staph bacteria, the toxins they produce can persist and result in illness.

Consumption of a product contaminated with staphylococcus aureus may lead to sudden symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. While these effects usually subside within a day and are generally not severe, individuals with weakened immune systems and children may be at a higher risk of experiencing serious complications. If you experience any severe symptoms after consuming food always contact a healthcare provider and report the incident to your local health department or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). 

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Longevity is a popular topic, thanks in part to the Blue Zones research on the best ways to live longer. It’s an idea so fascinating, and so inspiring, partly because there’s a growing awareness in our culture that extending your lifespan can be achieved through some of the simplest, and most pleasurable, things you do.

One of those is eating. A new study analyzed data on diets in seven countries after a team of doctors predicted that they’d observe an increase in life expectancy among populations that had transitioned “from typical national dietary patterns to longevity-optimizing dietary changes, more feasible dietary modifications, and optimized vegan dietary changes.”

Published in the April 29, 2024, issue of the peer-reviewed American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the study was led by public health and medical researchers who drew upon data from the Global Burden of Diseases and Injuries study, which is an ongoing initiative that monitors dietary habits and health metrics across multiple nations. The research combined statistics from China, France, Germany, Iran, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Adjusting for height, weight, and physical activity level, the researchers identified some broad-sweeping trends:

• Adopting a vegan diet could add five to seven years to one’s life.
• Even modest dietary adjustments, particularly the inclusion of whole grains and legumes while curbing sugary beverages, could contribute up to four additional years of life.
• Overall, they say the research suggests the public would likely boost their health and potenital for future health by adding these three foods: legumes, whole grains and nuts.
• Skipping processed meat was also associated with a longer life.

The United States emerged with the greatest opportunity to increase longevity, due to Americans’ widespread consumption of foods like processed meat and added sugars, combined with low intake of longevity-promoting foods like whole grains, nuts, legumes, and fish. To our collective credit, Americans ate a decent amount of vegetables and consumed enough fruit, but this didn’t fully offset the bad choices in other parts of the American diet. 

The study also suggested that men stand to benefit from dietary modifications more than women, likely because across countries it was observed women already follow healthier diets.

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Research consistently shows that heavy drinking harms brain health, but emerging evidence suggests that even light to moderate drinking can be detrimental. A 2022 study found that just one alcoholic drink a day is linked to reduced brain volume, a trend that strengthens with increased alcohol intake.

While you probably have heard about the benefits of red wine for heart health and potentially lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, the supporting evidence in human studies is still inconclusive. Cleveland Clinic hepatologist, Shreya Sengupta, MD, points out the bitter truth in the institution’s Health Essentials blog: “Alcohol causes more health troubles than it could ever help.” This is especially true regarding its impact on the brain.

Ahead, read about the short-term and long-term consequences of alcohol on cognitive health and whether there really is a safe drinking threshold.

Does drinking alcohol kill brain cells?

The brain is made up of cells known as neurons, which are essential for transmitting signals throughout the body and facilitating all brain functions. “What people don’t know is that alcohol is neurotoxic. It damages your brain cells,” explains Akhil Anand, MD, an addiction psychiatrist at the Cleveland Clinic.

What does alcohol do to your brain? In the short term, alcohol affects the brain by promoting feelings of sociability and relaxation. However, even a slight increase in the amount consumed can overwhelm the body’s ability to break down alcohol, leading to rapidly rising blood alcohol levels, which results in impaired coordination, slurred speech, memory lapses, and severe reactions like blackouts, coma, or death due to alcohol poisoning. Over the long term, regular alcohol use can lead to persistent memory problems and increase the risk of developing dementia.

The effects of alcohol on the brain also depend on the type of drink and its concentration. “Drinks with higher alcohol content will cause a stronger and faster response than drinks with low alcohol content,” notes Samuel Mathis, MD, a board-certified family medicine doctor and assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Therefore, a small quantity of a high-alcohol drink can have the same impact as a larger amount of a weaker drink. Eating food alongside alcohol can also slow its absorption into the bloodstream, helping to moderate these effects.

Examples of drinks with higher alcohol content:

• Spirits like vodka, rum, whiskey
• Liqueurs
• Fortified wines

Examples of drinks with lower alcohol content:

• Light beer
• Table wines
• Ciders

Your brain on alcohol

Your brain when you’re drinking

Alcohol is a brain relaxant. Dr. Mathis describes its effects, saying, “While drinking alcohol, there is an elevation in the brain’s neurotransmitters—GABA, dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These neurotransmitters induce relaxation and a sense of euphoria, contributing to the ‘buzz’ drinkers often feel.”

Alcohol also interferes with the ability of brain cells to communicate with the rest of the body, which leads to the typical drinking symptoms you know about, such as impaired judgment, poor coordination, changes in vision, and memory disturbances.

Your brain the day after drinking

The day after enjoying your favorite alcoholic beverages is often marred by a hangover. Dr. Mathis explains that one of the primary effects of alcohol on the body is dehydration, which “largely contributes to the hangover symptoms—headache, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating—that people experience the next day.” These symptoms are caused not only by dehydration but also because the liver is busy metabolizing the alcohol. Additionally, alcohol triggers inflammation, disrupts glucose levels, and affects the ability to achieve deep, restful sleep. “All of these factors collectively influence how we feel the following day,” shares Dr. Mathis.

Your brain the week after drinking

While the most immediate effects of alcohol usually subside within a week, some symptoms like sleep disturbances and mood changes can persist. Dr. Mathis explains, “This happens because the brain downregulates the neurotransmitters and their receptors.” Essentially, during heavy drinking episodes, the brain is overwhelmed with high levels of dopamine and serotonin. In response, it compensates by reducing its own production of these chemicals. Once alcohol consumption ceases, this change results in a deficiency of neurotransmitters and takes a toll on your mental health. Alcohol affects your mental health by prolonging symptoms like irritability and disrupted sleep, and exacerbating symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Long-term effects of drinking on the brain

Heavy drinking can severely impact brain health in the long term, leading to an increased risk of developing dementia and other memory-related issues, such as Korsakoff syndrome or Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy include confusion, memory issues, problems with gait and eye movements, and mood fluctuations. Dr. Anand emphasizes, “If you stop drinking, improve your nutrition, and replace your thiamine, these effects can be reversible.”

Dr. Mathis points out another long-term consequence: “Heavy drinking also creates a system of dependence and can lead to withdrawal symptoms when people stop drinking alcohol.” These symptoms can include anxiety, tremors, headaches, insomnia, and more.

And it’s not just heavy drinking that impacts brain health; if you drink alcohol daily or gradually increase your intake from one to two units or two to three units per day, it also leads to reductions in both gray and white matter, which are essential for processing information in the brain.

For context, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide the following guidelines:

• Heavy Drinking (Binge drinking):
  • Five or more drinks per occasion for men
  • Four or more drinks per occasion for women
  • Any alcohol use by minors or pregnant individuals
  • 15 or more drinks per week for men
  • Eight or more drinks per week for women
• Moderate Drinking:
  • Up to one drink per day for women
  • Up to two drinks per day for men

How much alcohol is too much for your brain

The CDC defines safe drinking limits as up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men, but recent research by the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that no level of alcohol consumption is completely safe.

And if you’re concerned about whether the brain can recover after years of alcohol use? Dr. Mathis explains, “The brain is a beautiful organ that has a significant capacity to heal minor damage.” However, the extent of recovery can vary greatly among individuals, and some damage may be irreversible.

It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider about strategies for protecting and healing the brain after prolonged alcohol use.

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The product was fresh out of processing, but a meat company that produces ground beef products has made a quality error that could result in severe illness for consumers.

Late day on May 1, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced that Cargill Meat Solutions was recalling 16,243 pounds of packaged raw ground beef due to potential contamination with E. coli O157:H7. “These items were shipped to Walmart retail locations nationwide,” the FSIS alert states.

The recall was initiated because Cargill Meat Solutions suspected that a portion of beef that had been initially set aside due to unidentified concerns was accidentally mixed in with raw beef intended for shipment.

The potentially contaminated ground beef products are sold in plastic-wrapped trays in various weights and forms, all produced on April 26 or 27, 2024.  Consumers should carefully inspect any bulk ground beef or burger-shaped patties purchased at Walmart in the past week. They can be identified by the USDA mark of inspection on the front and the establishment number “EST. 86P” on the back of the label. Typically, Walmart publishes the list of stores that received recalled products and updates its recall page for reference.

Recalled Cargill ground beef details

• 2.25-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing “93% LEAN 7% FAT ALL NATURAL LEAN GROUND BEEF” with lot code 117 and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the label.
• 1.33-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing four “PRIME RIB BEEF STEAK BURGERS PATTIES” with lot code 118 and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the label.
• 2.25-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing “85% LEAN 15% FAT ALL NATURAL ANGUS PREMIUM GROUND BEEF” with lot code 117 and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the label.
• 2.25-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing “80% LEAN 20% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF CHUCK” with lot code 118 and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the label.
• 1.33-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing four “80% LEAN 20% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF CHUCK PATTIES” with lot code 118 and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the label.
• 1.33-lbs. plastic-wrapped trays containing four “90% LEAN 10% FAT ALL NATURAL GROUND BEEF SIRLOIN PATTIES” with lot code 118 and establishment number “EST. 86P” printed on the back of the label.

At press time no illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled meat. The FSIS recommends that consumers who have purchased these products dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase, and advises checking freezers for the product. While you should never consume recalled meat, the FSIS notes that all raw beef needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F as registered on a meat thermometer to kill pathogens. 

Those who suspect they have consumed the recalled meat should have their symptoms evaluated by a healthcare provider. Authorities explain that symptoms of E. coli infection typically include stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, usually appearing three to four days after consuming the affected product, but may occur earlier or later. Infection can lead to serious complications, including fatal hemolytic uremic syndrome. If you notice these or any other symptoms after having possibly eaten ground beef, medical care may be advisable.

All consumer questions are directed to Cargill Meat Solutions at 1-844-419-1574.

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