1. High blood pressure at age 50 linked to a greater risk of dementia

A new study out published in the European Heart Journal found that blood pressure as low as 130 could at the age of 50 could increase the risk of dementia by 38 percent. (NYT)

 

3. Vitamin D deficiency linked to colorectal cancer in large scale study

A new study from the Journal of the National Cancer Institute showed a 30 percent increase in the risk of colorectal cancer for men and women with Vitamin D deficiencies. Protective doses of Vitamin D are higher than what’s optimal for bone health. (NPR)  

3. Fats and carbs together reward the brain more than either alone

Cell Metabolism journal just released a study showing that when test subject were shown photos of foods containing both fat and carbs, “the fat-carb combo lit up neural circuits in the reward center of the brain more than a favorite food, a potentially sweeter or more energy-dense food, or a larger portion size.” This study may shine new light on why some people eat when not hungry or choose certain foods that can lead to weight gain. (Science Daily)  

4. A potentially groundbreaking new science could replace insulin injections with caffeine

Coffee drinkers rejoice! Scientists have developed an implant that releases insulin when caffeine is detected in the blood. (The Guardian)  

5. New study shows a strong link between diabetes and pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. “Diabetes has been proposed to be both a risk factor for and a consequence of pancreatic cancer. The prevalence of diabetes among pancreatic cancer patients is unusually high relative to other cancers.” (EurekaAlert)  

6. Walking can extend the lifespan of survivors of childhood cancer

A new study in JAMA Oncology found that one hour of brisk walking a day could increase the lifespan of adults who survived a childhood cancer diagnosis. (NYT)