Health Alert: In Utero Toxin Exposure Linked to Lower Birthweight.
Mycoestrogens are naturally occurring, estrogen-like compounds produced by certain fungi that may be ingested through contaminated cereals and grains. In a recent study, researchers observed that exposure to the mycoestrogen zearalenone among expectant mothers who also carry a gene variant called ABCG2 Q141K resulted in an increased risk of low birthweight. The findings highlight how genetics and environmental exposures may jointly affect fetal development.
Environmental Health Perspectives, March 2025
Diet: Low-Fiber Diet May Lead to Unstable Plaques in Arteries.
An analysis of data concerning more than 24,000 adults revealed an association between low-fiber intake and an increased risk of unstable plaque in the coronary arteries, which is linked to an elevated risk of heart attack.
Cardiovascular Research, June 2025
Exercise: Everyday Biking May Promote Healthy Brain Aging.
Using data from the UK Biobank study, researchers report that adults who primarily travel by bicycle have a 19% lower risk of dementia and a 22% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease—with the greatest risk reduction in those with genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s. The research team hypothesizes that the combination of physical activity and balance requirements required to cycle may stimulate the brain more than other forms of transportation like walking, driving, or using public transportation.
JAMA Network Open, June 2025
Chiropractic: Forward Head Posture Makes Balancing More Taxing on the Brain.
Forward head posture is a postural misalignment in which the head protrudes in front of the body’s center of gravity, increasing strain on the neck and upper back muscles. Examinations of 64 adults under age 25 revealed the brain must expend more cortical resources to maintain stability when forward head posture is present—especially during more physically demanding balance tasks.
Scientific Reports, July 2025
Mental Attitude: Sedentary Behavior Linked to Depression in Older Teens.
A systematic review that included 25 studies revealed a link between more time spent engaged in sedentary behaviors and up to a 69% increased risk of depression in late adolescents.
BMC Public Health, July 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Early Pregnancy Blood Test May Predict Preeclampsia Risk.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. According to a recent study, blood samples collected during early pregnancy may show signs of cell-free RNA that indicate an increased risk of preeclampsia up to 18 weeks in advance. The finding may pave the way for a blood test to identify expectant mothers at risk for the condition.
Human Reproduction, June 2025
