New research in cell cultures has found that a diet with high salt reduces tumour growth by altering the function of certain immune cells in mice. Researchers conducted a cell-culture experiment where they replicated a high salt environment and found that excessive salt inhibited the function of a type of immune cell, which scientists call myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) both in mice cells and in human MDSCs taken from cancer patients. A high salt environment stopped MDSCs from inhibiting other immune cells almost completely. Previous studies have, in fact, suggested that MDSCs play a key role in preventing the immune system from effectively attacking tumours.
Good news for night owls
Simple adjustments in the routine can help night owls, found a study. It is common for people who go to bed late and wake up late to experience health problems, with chances of developing diabetes and heart disease. This generally happens because the body clock does not align with the regular rhythms of the current society. Previous studies have shown that night owls experience an effect similar to jet lag – but on a daily basis. The new study states that a few easy adjustments could help balance the body clock. The research findings highlight the ability of a simple non-pharmacological intervention to phase advance ‘night owls,’ reduce negative elements of mental health and sleepiness, as well as manipulate peak performance times in the real world.
CBT to treat menopause
Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) may be effective in managing menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, depression and sleep disorders, states a new study. CBT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on modifying negative thought patterns and behaviours. It has shown positive effects in the treatment of several mental health conditions; previous studies found it effective in minimising hot flashes. However, the new study found that CBT may also be effective in managing other symptoms of menopause, such as depression and sleep disorders, among other concerns. Researchers found that the improvements lasted for at least 3 months after the treatment.
White or red, which meat is more harmful?
For all those who believe white meat is better than red meat to control cholesterol levels, a new study will prove to be a riddle. According to researchers, eating white meat is just as bad for the cholesterol levels as eating red meat. The previous belief relied on different observational studies that found a link between the consumption of red meat and higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that while abstaining from eating meat altogether lowered blood cholesterol more than that was previously believed, it also learnt that consuming both red and white meat raised blood cholesterol levels more than consuming equivalent levels of plant-based proteins. This was attributed primarily to increases in large LDL particles.
