Warning about regular use of acetaminophen and harming the heart

Medical Watch Digest for April 8

A warning that regular use of acetaminophen may harm the heart

Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in Tylenol. It’s often recommended over non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, for people with high blood pressure or heart disease.

But a new study in mice discovered acetaminophen changes proteins in the heart tissue. That could, in turn, potentially affect biochemical pathways needed for important functions.

The findings from the University of California – Davis are being presented right now at the American Physiology Summit.

Ultra-processed food and glaucoma.

New research shows a link between ultra-processed food and glaucoma.

Ultra processed foods  tend to have high levels of added salt, sugar, fat and chemical additives.

Research published in the journal “nutrients” found study participants who ate ultra processed foods the most had a higher risk for glaucoma.

The threat increased if the foods had a high sugar content.

Other studies have shown UPFs cause inflammation, a condition researchers say may be behind the increased risk for glaucoma.

More Coverage: WGN’s Medical Watch

What is your biological age?

Researchers are finding a link between cancer risks and your biological age.

Your biological age is a value that can represent the wear and tear on your body, not just the year you are born.

This can be found in your blood.

Researchers say younger adults are more likely to show accelerated aging and have higher risks of cancer in the lungs, stomach, and intestines.

But the research is limited because it did not follow people over time.

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