#Medicine & Health Sciences

[jcmarchi]

Researchers study differences in attitudes toward Covid-19 vaccines between women and men in Africa

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Researchers study differences in attitudes toward Covid-19 vaccines between women and men in Africa

While many studies over the past several years have examined people’s access to and attitudes toward Covid-19 vaccines, few studies in sub-Saharan Africa have looked at whether there were differences in vaccination rates and intention between men and women. In a new study appearing in the journal Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, researchers found that while women and men self-reported similar Covid-19 vaccination rates in 2022, unvaccinated men expressed more intention to get vaccinated than unvaccinated women.

Women tend to have better health-seeking behaviors than men overall. However, most studies relating to Covid-19 vaccination have found that intention has been lower among women. “We wondered whether this would hold true at the uptake level,” says Rawlance Ndejjo, a leader of the new study and an assistant lecturer in the Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health at Makerere University.

The comparable vaccination rates between men and women in the study is “a good thing to see,” adds Lula Chen, research director at MIT Governance Lab (GOV/LAB) and a co-author of the new study. “There wasn’t anything gendered about how [the vaccine] was being advertised or who was actually getting access to it.”

Women’s lower intention to vaccinate seemed to be driven by concerns about vaccine safety, suggesting that providing factual information about vaccine safety from trusted sources, like the Ministry of Health, could increase uptake.

The work is a collaboration between scholars from the MIT GOV/LAB, Makerere University’s School of Public Health in Uganda, University of Kinshasa’s School of Public Health in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), University of Ibadan’s College of Medicine in Nigeria, and Cheikh Anta Diop University in Senegal. 

Studying vaccine availability and uptake in sub-Saharan Africa

The authors’ collaboration began in 2021 with research into Covid-19 vaccination rates, people’s willingness to get vaccinated, and how people’s trust in different authorities shaped attitudes toward vaccines in Uganda, the DRC, Senegal, and Nigeria. A survey in Uganda found that people who received information about Covid-19 from health workers were more likely to be vaccinated, stressing the important role people who work in the health-care system can play in vaccination efforts.

Work from other scientists has found that women were less likely to accept Covid-19 vaccines than men, and that in low- and middle-income countries, women also may be less likely to get vaccinated against Covid-19 and less likely to intend to get vaccinated, possibly due to factors including lower levels of education, work obligations, and domestic care obligations.

Previous studies in sub-Saharan Africa that focused on differences between men and women with intention and willingness to vaccinate were inconclusive, Ndejjo says. “You would hardly find actual studies on uptake of the vaccines,” he adds. For the new paper, the researchers aimed to dig into uptake.

People who trust the government and health officials were more likely to get vaccinated

The researchers relied on phone survey data collected from adults in the four countries between March and July 2022. The surveys asked people about whether they’d been vaccinated and whether those who were unvaccinated intended to get vaccinated, as well as their attitudes toward Covid-19, their trust in different authorities, demographic information, and more.

Overall, 48.5 percent of men said they had been vaccinated, compared to 47.9 percent of women. Trust in authorities seemed to play a role in people’s decision to vaccinate — receiving information from health workers about Covid-19 and higher trust in the Ministry of Health were both correlated with getting vaccinated for men, whereas higher trust in the government was correlated with vaccine uptake in women.

Lower interest in vaccines among women seemed related to safety concerns

A smaller percentage of unvaccinated women (54 percent) said they intended to get vaccinated, compared to 63.4 percent of men. More unvaccinated women said they had concerns about the vaccine’s safety than unvaccinated men, which could be driving their lower intention.

The researchers also found that unvaccinated women and men over 40 had similar levels of intention to get vaccinated — lower intention in women under 40 may have driven the difference between men and women. Younger women could have concerns about vaccines related to pregnancy, Chen says. If this is the case, the research suggests that officials need to provide additional reassurance to pregnant people about vaccine safety, she adds.

Trust in authorities also contributed to people’s intention to vaccinate. Trust in the Ministry of Health was tied to higher intention to vaccinate for both men and women. Men with more trust in the World Health Organization were also more likely to intend to vaccinate.

“There’s a need to deal with a lot of the myths and misconceptions that exist,” Ndejjo says, as well as ensure that people’s concerns related to vaccine safety and effectiveness are addressed. Officials need “to work with trusted sources of information to bridge some of the gaps that we observe,” he adds. People need to be supported in their decision-making so they can make the best decisions for their health.

“This research highlights linkages between citizen trust in government, their willingness to get vaccines, and, importantly, the differences between men and women on this issue — differences that policymakers will need to understand in order to design more targeted, gender-specific public health interventions,” says study co-author Lily L. Tsai, who is MIT GOV/LAB’s director and founder and the Ford Professor of Political Science at MIT.

This project was funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

[ravings-of-a-mad-scientist]

Perfect Pathogen; Fatal Flaws in the Human Immune System

[globaleducators]

Study MBBS in Abroad: Unlocking Global Opportunities for Indian Students

The pursuit of a medical degree is a dream cherished by many Indian students. Not with standing the keen contention and modest seating in  checkup colleges much get this day dream hard to reach. Fortunately the option to Study MBBS in abroad offers a promising alternative allowing students to access top-tier medical education without the constraints of the NEET exam.

Why Choose to Study MBBS in Abroad?

Opting to study MBBS in abroad provides Indian students with the chance to receive world-class education in a global setting. numerous universities foreign set not take neet lots for admittance devising this associate in nursing cunning alternative for students world health organization get not bear met the neet criteria. This flexibility combined with the opportunity to learn in a multicultural environment prepares students for a successful career in medicine both in India and internationally.

Important Details for MBBS in Abroad 2024

For students aiming to study MBBS in foreign countries in 2024 understanding the eligibility criteria fees structure admission requirements scholarships and course duration is decisive. about universities take students to bear complete their higher high pedagogy with amp sound base in skill subjects notably physical science chemical science and biota. also some institutions may require evidence of English proficiency through exams like IELTS or TOEFL.

The fees for MBBS programs abroad are often more affordable than private medical colleges in India with tuition fees ranging between INR 15-25 lakhs for the entire course. this makes it amp cost-effective alternative for numerous students. Admission requirements typically include academic transcripts a statement of purpose recommendation letters and in some cases an interview.

Scholarships are also available to help reduce the financial burden. these scholarships get work founded along rate or fiscal take offer important back to worth students.

get a personal quote

Before devising a conclusion it's important to meet Fancy Information around the costs eligibility and different requirements for your elect university. By Asking a personalized quote you can obtain all the necessary details to help you plan your education effectively.

Conclusion In conclusion choosing to study MBBS in abroad opens up a world of opportunities for Indian students providing access to high-quality education without the stress of NEET. with right provision and provision you get venture along amp appreciated travel toward amp eminent checkup vocation.

[healthylifestyle477]

Transform Your Health: Discover the #1 Rated Blood Sugar Formula with 8 Potent Ingredients for Weight Loss and Energy

Managing blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging, especially with the fast-paced lifestyle many of us lead. However, a groundbreaking solution called Sugar Defender is here to help you achieve your health goals quickly, easily, and from the comfort of your home.

In this post, we'll dive into how Sugar Defender can transform your health by supporting healthy blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss with its unique blend of 8 carefully-selected ingredients. Plus, we'll explore the benefits of each ingredient and discuss the risk-free 60-day guarantee that makes trying Sugar Defender a no-brainer.

The Science Behind Sugar Defender

Sugar Defender is formulated to assist in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels while promoting weight loss. This powerful supplement combines eight potent ingredients known for their health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients and how they contribute to your overall well-being.

1. Eleuthero

Increases Energy and Reduces Fatigue

Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stress. It boosts energy levels, reduces fatigue, and improves mental clarity, making it easier to stay active and focused throughout the day.

2. Coleus

Fat Burning Aid

Coleus forskohlii is a plant known for its fat-burning properties. It helps to activate an enzyme called adenylate cyclase, which increases levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) in the body. This, in turn, stimulates the breakdown of fat cells and promotes weight loss.

3. Maca Root

Boosts Your Energy

Maca root, a Peruvian plant, is renowned for its ability to enhance energy and stamina. It also helps balance hormones, which can improve overall mood and well-being.

4. African Mango

Fat Burning Agent

African Mango extract, derived from the seeds of the Irvingia gabonensis tree, is known for its weight loss benefits. It helps to reduce appetite, boost metabolism, and burn fat more effectively.

5. Guarana

Stimulates Your Metabolism

Guarana is a natural stimulant that comes from the seeds of a South American plant. It contains caffeine, which boosts metabolism and increases energy levels, helping you stay active and burn more calories.

6. Gymnema

Supports Healthy Heart & Blood Sugar

Gymnema sylvestre is a herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to manage blood sugar levels. It helps reduce sugar absorption in the intestines and supports healthy insulin function, promoting balanced blood sugar levels.

7. Ginseng

Supports Healthy Blood Glucose

Ginseng is a well-known adaptogen that supports healthy blood glucose levels. It enhances insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a valuable ingredient for overall metabolic health.

8. Chromium

Reduces Obesity & Lowers Blood Pressure

Chromium is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It helps to reduce body fat, improve muscle mass, and lower blood pressure, contributing to better overall health.

The Sugar Defender Promise: A Risk-Free 60-Day Guarantee

We understand that trying a new supplement can be daunting, especially when it comes to your health. That’s why every bottle of Sugar Defender comes with a full 60-day guarantee. You can try it out and see its improving effects on your blood sugar and weight loss with absolutely no risk whatsoever.

If you don’t experience the desired results within 60 days, you can return the product for a full refund, no questions asked. This guarantee ensures that you can take the first step towards better health with confidence.

Conclusion

Sugar Defender has already helped thousands of people improve their blood sugar levels and lose weight safely and effectively. With its powerful blend of eight potent ingredients, this supplement can help you achieve your health goals quickly and easily, right from your home.

Don't let uncertainty hold you back from transforming your health. Try Sugar Defender today and experience the benefits for yourself. With the 60-day risk-free guarantee, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Start your journey to better health now and discover the difference Sugar Defender can make in your life.

for more detail click on this link:https://tinyurl.com/5hapbvpf

[rooted-active-naturals]

Discover the power of nature with Rooted Active Naturals’ medicinal mushrooms and mushroom supplements. Our premium products are meticulously crafted to support your health and wellness. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, these potent fungi enhance immune function, boost energy, and promote overall well-being. Sourced from the finest organic farms, our mushroom supplements ensure purity and potency. Experience the benefits of ancient remedies combined with modern science. Choose Rooted Active Naturals for a natural, effective way to elevate your health. Shop now and transform your wellness journey with the magic of mushrooms!

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Best medicine & health sciences books

<a target=”_blank” href=”https://www.amazon.in/b?_encoding=UTF8&tag=yodocto23-21&linkCode=ur2&linkId=89150e0bcabc33de76ba363fc4bf457c&camp=3638&creative=24630&node=4149549031��>Best medicine &amp; health sciences books </a>

[glucotrureviewslovers]

GlucoTru Supplements Reviews: A Comprehensive Analysis

As per the World Health Organization, more than 420 million people suffer from diabetes globally. With increasing prevalence, many companies have launched products to help manage the condition, and GlucoTru Supplements is one of them. In this article, we'll conduct a comprehensive analysis of GlucoTru Supplements, exploring its ingredients, effectiveness, and customer reviews.

Introduction to GlucoTru Supplements

GlucoTru Supplements are a blend of natural ingredients that claim to help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. The supplement's manufacturer states that it's made from a unique blend of plant extracts that have been scientifically proven to help with blood sugar control.

The Science Behind GlucoTru Supplements

The main ingredient in GlucoTru Supplements is berberine, a plant compound found in certain herbs like goldenseal and Oregon grape. According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, berberine can help regulate blood sugar levels by activating an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which increases insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake.

Another study published in the journal Metabolism found that berberine supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Berberine also helped improve lipid metabolism, reducing total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

GlucoTru Supplements Ingredients

Apart from berberine, GlucoTru Supplements also contain several other natural ingredients that are believed to help control blood sugar levels. These include:

Cinnamon Bark Extract

Cinnamon bark extract is a popular ingredient in many natural supplements aimed at improving blood sugar control. According to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, cinnamon bark extract can help reduce fasting blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Gymnema Sylvestre Extract

Gymnema sylvestre is an herb that's commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat diabetes. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, gymnema sylvestre extract can help reduce fasting blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Chromium Picolinate

Chromium is a mineral that's essential for insulin sensitivity. According to a study published in the journal Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics, chromium supplementation can help improve glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes.

GlucoTru Supplements Effectiveness

Based on the ingredients and scientific evidence, GlucoTru Supplements may be effective in helping control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. However, as with any supplement, individual results may vary, and it's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Customer Reviews of GlucoTru Supplements

Customer reviews of GlucoTru Supplements are generally positive, with many users reporting improved blood sugar control after using the supplement. Some customers also reported experiencing fewer sugar cravings and feeling more energized throughout the day. Read more about GlucoTru supplements reviews.

Side Effects of GlucoTru Supplements

According to the manufacturer, GlucoTru Supplements are made from all-natural ingredients and are generally safe for most people. However, some people may experience mild side effects like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset.

Conclusion

Overall, GlucoTru Supplements appear to be a promising supplement for people with diabetes looking to improve their blood sugar control. With its unique blend of natural ingredients, including berberine, cinnamon bark extract, gymnema sylvestre extract, and chromium picolinate, GlucoTru Supplements may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. However, individual results may vary, and it's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

[jcmarchi]

New Research Reveals We Are Climate Complacent – And Why - Technology Org

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New Research Reveals We Are Climate Complacent – And Why - Technology Org

The UK public is complacent when it comes to personal action on climate change and, without intervention, meaningful changes to lifestyles and consumption behaviours will not happen, according to new research by the University of Southampton.

Changing diet to be more eco-friendly is a lifestyle change people are most reluctant to make. Image credit: Pixabay (Free Pixabay license)

Those are the findings of the first study in the UK into the deep-seated preferences of the public in terms of personal climate actions.

The study, published in the Journal of Cleaner Production, questioned hundreds of people on their attitudes to climate change and their willingness to change behaviours.

The research was led by postgraduate researcher Alice Brock and co-authored by Ian Williams, Professor of Applied Environmental Science, and Simon Kemp, Professor of Environmental Science.

Alice said: “Working out who is responsible for climate change is highly complex and highly contested. However, we must address this question if we are to find solutions.

“Households are the largest direct contributor to carbon emissions in the UK, mostly due to household heating and travelling. So, it’s critical we understand our population’s attitude to climate change and to making behavioural or lifestyle changes. This study is the first to get to the heart of that.”

The researchers surveyed a total of 381 people in the UK (in Southampton) and found that the public are well-informed about climate change, with many demonstrating high levels of concern and anxiety – but this awareness does not necessarily translate into action.

Most respondents (315) said climate change is ‘an extremely serious problem’ or ‘a very serious problem’, and 213 people said that responsibility for addressing it lies with everybody (national and local governments, business and industry, individuals, and environmental groups), whilst 117 respondents said responsibility lies with the national government.

Overall, respondents were most likely to make simple low-impact changes, such as swapping out lightbulbs, cutting down on overseas travel, and being mindful of where clothing comes from. Bigger behaviour changes such as changing diet or cutting down on domestic travel, as well as more expensive changes, such as replacing electrical appliances with more eco-friendly versions, were the changes people were least likely to make.

“A preference for carbon reduction behaviours that would have the lowest impact on people’s day-to-day life was evident,” explained Alice. “People are unwilling to make more difficult changes to their lifestyles, such as changing their diet. People’s desire to carry on as normal outweighs their concern around climate change.”

The research calls on those in authority – in industry and government – to take charge.

Professor Williams concluded: “People feel overwhelmed by the climate change situation and don’t know where to start or which changes to make – so it must be down to someone else, such as our business and governmental leaders, to take action. Without this intervention – with initiatives such as annual personal carbon allowances – the public won’t make changes in a meaningful way.”

Source: University of Southampton

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Hyde Heavy Containment: Hazardous Materials

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‘I’m a Trainer, and Here’s How I Design a Workout for Max Mental Health Benefits’

Exercising can be a powerful tool for maintaining and improving mental health—just ask science. A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, one of the largest studies on the topic to date, found regular exercise to be effective in treating symptoms of depression and anxiety. But not all workouts are created equal, and some will be more beneficial to your mental health than others. Plus, it’s possible for exercise to have negative mental health impacts, especially when related to exercise addiction. So how do you ensure your workout is serving both your body and your mind? Grace Albin, a Pilates instructor and personal trainer with a passion for optimizing exercise for your mental well-being, shares her best mental health exercise tips below. 5 mental health exercise tips a trainer swears by Tip 1: Find what works for you Reaping the most mental health benefits from your workout means exercising consistently. Finding an activity that you genuinely enjoy can help with this, says Albin, and sports psychologist agree. It can increase your intrinsic motivation, or doing something for the internal satisfaction of doing it, rather than the external validation or reward, Jamie Shapiro, an associate professor of sports psychology at Denver University, previously told Well+Good. When you find the right form of movement, you’ll know, Albin says. It’ll be something that makes you feel good and that you can look forward to, rather than “another chore on the to-do list,” she says. “It should be a thing that you get to do, not that you have to do.” One workout may not be your go-to mental health boost forever—if you feel yourself starting to get bored or feel unsatisfied, switch things up, says Albin. Just don’t overthink it, and go with your gut: “Overthinking it will actually backfire on you,” she says. “Exercising is the time to be intuitive rather than overly mental.” In general, science shows that low-stress workouts tend to be best for your mental health, but again, that’ll vary from person to person. The goal is to find something that lights you up without leaving your feeling too amped up in the end. Tip 2: Be selfish about your workout time For your workout to benefit your mind, as well as your body, make sure it is truly your time. Resist the temptation to make it a multitasking event, says Albin, whether that’s walking the dog or pushing the stroller as you run, or listening to a work-related podcast. Trying to do the most can undermine the point of exercising for your mental health by increasing the stress level of the workout. “Doing exercise can have great stress management implications,” Darren Lumbard, a psychologist who works with athletes at Atlantic Sports Health, previously told Well+Good. “But if we’re getting stressed , we counter the positive effects of exercise.” Instead, Albin says, your workout time should be multisensory, “whether you’re listening to the playlist you really like, or walking in a park that you love to see,” says Albin. “I promise you’re going to have so much extra energy that day that you’ll feel like you gained an hour of productivity.” Proponents of multisensory workouts say their ability to help your mind stay present deepen the mental (and physical) health benefits. “Research has shown that if our minds are focused on the present moment and we’re paying attention to our senses, we tend to perform at a higher level,” Justin Anderson, a sports psychologist and founder of Premier Sport Psychology in Minneapolis, previously told Well+Good. “You have a certain video, song, or energy being transmitted—that’s an emotion that helps drive energy to harness and focus on the drill at hand.” Don’t sacrifice what you need out of your workout for social reasons either, says Albin—maybe you feel pressure to take Zumba dance workouts because that’s what your friend does, for instance, but what you’d really rather do is yoga. “You got the physical benefits, because you went to a class and moved your body, but you didn’t get the mental benefits, because that wasn’t the exercise that your body was telling you to do that day,” says Albin. Tip 3: Create a designated exercise space If you’re working out at home, create a space (even if it’s small!) that will help you be mentally present. “For some people, it’s that dark, traditional spin class atmosphere with the electronic music,” says Albin. “And for some people, it’s super bright, lots of sunlight, you’ve got your candle, and it’s like a spa.” Small choices like lighting and music can set the tone for a workout that rejuvenates both mind and body. Tip 4: Keep it simple But that doesn’t mean you have to spend lots of money on fancy fitness equipment or products. In fact, Albin says, doing so can mitigate the mental health benefits of working out for some people, since “you’re stressing yourself out because now you’re going to be paying for this thing for the next few months of your credit card statement.” As long as it won’t bring guilt or stress into your workout, Albin acknowledges that having a cute new outfit, or resistance bands that match your exercise mat, can be motivating, and make the experience more fun. “But you absolutely do not need to buy anything special in order to do this,” she says. “That’s one of the barriers for people who think they don’t have the money, or don’t have the time—you don’t even need a full hour.” Tip 5: Leave the competitive mindset for another day For the last of her mental health exercise tips, Albin shares that while there’s a time and a place for competitive workouts, she believes they aren’t as beneficial for mental health. If you love racing your friends on your Peloton or trying to stay in the orange zone at Orangetheory, great, says Albin—just be sure you have at least one workout a week that’s just about enjoying moving your body. Read the full article

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Key Topics in Neonatology 2nd Edition Free Download Pdf

Neonatology  Completely revised, the second edition of Key Topics in Neonatology provides a practical, systematic reference for all the major topics in neonatal medicine. Practical and easy to use, the book retains the same well-received format as the first edition, updates subject matter where significant recent developments have taken place, and widens the scope of the text by adding entirely…

[harpianews]

Once upon a time... bedtime stories were only for children

Once upon a time… bedtime stories were only for children

Around 10 p.m., Lindsay Colford settles in bed with Matthew McConaughey’s dulcet draw, who is about to take her on an audio journey through the universe until she falls asleep. Some nights, the sound of Harry Styles reciting a bedtime poem echoes through the walls. And on other nights, Reggae-Jean Page calmly tells a story about an English prince. Coleford, 39, an executive assistant in Tinton…

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Breakthrough infections generate strong immunity to Covid-19 variants: Study - Times of India

Breakthrough infections generate strong immunity to Covid-19 variants: Study – Times of India

WASHINGTON: People who are infected after getting vaccinated develop a greatly enhanced immune response to variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes Covid-19, according to a lab study. The research, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), shows that a breakthrough infection generates a robust immune response against the Delta variant. The findings suggest that the…

[jcmarchi]

Small amounts of liquorice raise blood pressure - Technology Org

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Small amounts of liquorice raise blood pressure - Technology Org

It is known that large amounts of liquorice cause high blood pressure. A study by researchers at Linköping University now shows that even small amounts of liquorice raise blood pressure. The individuals who react most strongly also show signs of strain on the heart.

A liquorice – illustrative photo. Image credit: Pixabay (Free Pixabay license)

Liquorice is produced from the root of plants of the Glycyrrhiza species and has long been used as a herbal remedy and flavouring. However, it is known that eating liquorice can also raise blood pressure. This is mainly due to a substance called glycyrrhizic acid that affects the body’s fluid balance through effects on an enzyme in the kidney. High blood pressure, in turn, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Both the European Union and the World Health Organization have concluded that 100 mg of glycyrrhizic acid per day is probably safe to eat for most individuals. But some people eat more liquorice than that. The Swedish Food Agency has estimated that 5 per cent of Swedes have an intake higher than this level.

Is the limit safe?

In the current study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers at Linköping University wanted to test whether the limit stated as likely safe actually is so or not.

It is not easy to know how much glycyrrhizic acid is in the liquorice you eat, as its concentration in different liquorice products varies greatly. This variation may depend on factors such as origin, storage conditions and liquorice root species. In addition, the amount of glycyrrhizic acid is not indicated on many products. The Linköping University study is the first to have carefully measured the amount of glycyrrhizic acid in the liquorice that was tested, while being randomised and having a control group.

Ate liquorice for two weeks

In the study, 28 women and men aged 18–30 were instructed to eat liquorice, or a control product that did not contain any liquorice, over two periods of time. The control product instead contained salmiak, which gives salty liquorice its flavour. The liquorice weighed 3.3 grammes and contained 100 mg of glycyrrhizic acid, that is, the amount indicated as likely safe for most people to eat daily. Participants were randomly assigned to eat either liquorice or the control product for two weeks, take a break for two weeks, and then eat the other variety for two weeks. This enabled the researchers to compare the effect of both varieties in the same person. The study participants were asked to measure their blood pressure at home every day. At the end of each intake period, the researchers measured levels of various hormones, salt balance, and heart workload.

“In the study, we found that a daily intake of liquorice containing 100 mg glycyrrhizic acid raised blood pressure in young healthy people. This hasn’t previously been shown for such small amounts of liquorice,” says Peder af Geijerstam, doctoral student at the Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences at Linköping University, general practitioner, and lead author of the study.

When the participants ate liquorice, their blood pressure increased by an average of 3.1 mmHg.

Some were more sensitive

The researchers also measured two hormones that are affected by liquorice and that regulate fluid balance: renin and aldosterone. The levels of both of these decreased when eating liquorice. The quarter of the study participants who were most sensitive, based on their levels of the hormones renin and aldosterone decreasing the most after eating liquorice, also gained slightly in weight, most likely due to an increased amount of fluid in the body. This group also had elevated levels of a protein that the heart secretes more of when it needs to work harder to pump around the blood in the body, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). This suggests increased fluid volume and heart workload in the individuals most sensitive to the effects of liquorice.

“Our results give reason to be more cautious when it comes to recommendations and labelling for food containing liquorice,” says Fredrik Nyström, professor at the same department, who was responsible for the study.

The study was funded with support from, among others, The Strategic Research Network in Circulation and Metabolism (LiU-CircM) at Linköping University, The National Research School in General Practice at Umeå University, King Gustaf V and Queen Victoria Freemason Foundation and Region Östergötland.

Article: A low dose of daily licorice intake affects renin, aldosterone, and home blood pressure in a randomized crossover trial, Peder af Geijerstam, Annelie Joelsson, Karin Rådholm and Fredrik Nyström, (2024). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 119 No. 3-682-692. Published online 20 January 2024, doi: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.01.011

Written by Karin Söderlund Leifler 

Source: Linköping University

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How long does immunity last from the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine?

How long does immunity last from the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine?

Solution to your most current coronavirus questions from Dr. Jen Ashton.

[forkadelphia]

Behavior Change for Good unveils effective strategies to boost vaccination rates | Penn Today

Behavior Change for Good unveils effective strategies to boost vaccination rates | Penn Today

Katy Milkman co-directs the Behavior Change for Good initiative with Penn’s Angela Duckworth. Milkman is also the James G. Dinan Endowed Professor and a professor of operations, information, and decisions at the Wharton School. She has a secondary appointment in the Perelman School of Medicine. (Image: Eric Sucar) The Behavior Change for Good Initiative (BCFG) at the Wharton School and the…