In a recent study, scientists have found that oleuropein, a compound found in olive leaf extracts, can help treat endometriosis.
According to this 2022 study, when introduced to mice with endometriosis, olive leaf extracts improved their fertility rate.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissues similar to that growing inside the uterus grow outside the uterus.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10% of women their reproductive age develop endometriosis. That is almost 190 million cases worldwide.
The tissues that develop outside the uterus may behave like typical uterus linings and shed and bleed every month.
Since the tissues grow outside the uterus, there is no easy path for them to leave the body. This causes cramps and pain.
Also, the tissue growths can block the fallopian tube and form cysts. They can also push into the bladder or the intestines, causing organ damage.
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory condition affected by estrogen levels in the body.
Estrogen is a major female sex hormone that controls the functioning of the reproductive system.
One type of estrogen, called estradiol, is especially important for forming the tissues inside the uterus.
Estrogen receptors ER-alpha and ER-beta control the effect of estradiol on the uterine tissues.
A 2019 study reports that ER-beta plays a more critical role in the progression of endometriosis.
Olive leaves contain oleuropein, which a 2022 study suggests may be effective in treating endometriosis.
In this study, a group of mice was chosen and induced endometriosis surgically. A part of the group was treated orally with oleuropein.
The study reported that the mice treated with oleuropein had lesser endometrial lesions than the other group. The drug also improved fertility rates in these mice.
Additionally, the study mentions that the drug did not cause liver toxicity and was safer for the mice.
Oleuropein is a major component in olive leaves (19% weight to weight). As a result, this study concludes that olive leaves could be used to treat endometriosis naturally by inhibiting ER-beta.
Here are other effective ways to manage endometriosis.
Hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills and vaginal rings can reduce estrogen levels and manage endometrial tissue growth.
Individuals with endometriosis may be prescribed hormonal contraceptives to help manage the symptoms.
Certain foods and diets may reduce estrogen levels in the body and help control symptoms of endometriosis.
Mediterranean Lifestyle – The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in whole grains, good fat, vegetables, and fruits, may help lower estrogen levels.
Limiting refined carbohydrates – Refined carbohydrates can quickly spike blood sugar levels, increasing estrogen levels. Limiting refined carbohydrates can help regulate estrogen and make endometriosis manageable.
High fiber diet – A diet high in fiber may help push out excess estrogen through fecal excretion. This can help manage endometriosis.
Excessive body fat promotes the production of estrogen. By losing weight, estrogen circulation is better, and this can bring down the severity of endometriosis.
Multiple studies prove a positive relationship between alcohol intake and increased estrogen levels in females. Reducing alcohol intake, especially during the luteal phase (second half) of the menstrual cycle, can help reduce the symptoms of endometriosis.
Do you wake up tired and unrested every morning despite being in bed for 8 hours? Then it is likely that you are not getting the recommended 13-23% of deep sleep out of your total bedtime. It turns out genes play an essential role in influencing the deep sleep pattern of an individual.
Deep sleep is the third stage of sleep when it’s the hardest to wake up. It is also the most refreshing stage of sleep.
From the non-REM stage, people transition to the light sleep stage before moving to deep sleep. This stage is then followed by REM sleep.
During deep sleep, the body produces the human growth hormone and resets the body by repairing the physical stresses of the day.
The brain also converts the day’s events into long-term memories.
During the course of a typical night’s sleep, an individual goes through four distinct stages.
If this cycle is disrupted, it can lead to poor sleep, particularly if the deep sleep stage is affected.
Disruption of deep sleep can be temporary and caused by factors such as jet lag, illness, stress, high caffeine intake, or medication side effects.
Chronic sleep deprivation can result from mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or stress.
Additionally, if you suffer from any of the following sleep disorders, it can affect your deep sleep:
Research studies point out a change in the ADA gene that influences deep sleep.
This gene produces an adenosine deaminase enzyme that breaks down a molecule called adenosine. This reaction regulates many critical physiological processes.
ADA gene changes are associated with the reduced conversion of adenosine. Adenosine buildup may cause increased tiredness.
People with one or more copies of these changes may have lowered deep sleep and may experience more daytime sleepiness than others.
With the sleep/wake cycle, the longer you are awake, the greater the body senses the need to sleep. This phenomenon is called sleep pressure.
An increase in adenosine drives sleeps pressure. During the daytime, when we expend energy, ATP is broken down to fuel that, and adenosine is released as a byproduct.
Therefore, the more energy we expend, the more adenosine is released, making us more and more sleepy.
Curious about your sleep genes? Here’s how you can learn about it in 3 simple steps:
Are you tired of feeling forgetful, sluggish, and unmotivated? Do you wish to boost your brain function and improve your mental performance?
Many methods and techniques exist to achieve this, including brain exercises, meditation, and nutritional supplements.
One of the most popular supplements is BDNF, which is known for its potential to improve memory, learning, and focus.
But can BDNF supplements really boost brain function? Let’s find out.
Many nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, are essential in supporting brain function. Even with a healthy diet, you may be at increased risk for some nutritional deficiencies due to specific genetic changes you carry.
BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) is a protein found in the brain. It is a neurotrophin, which is a growth factor for neurons.
BDNF helps develop, grow, and function the neurons in the brain.
Neurons are messengers that carry information to different parts of the brain and the nervous system as electrical and chemical impulses.
Brain BDNF levels keep neurons healthy and, as a result, improve brain functioning.
While most BDNF gets used in the brain, other organs like the heart, lungs, kidneys, GI tract, and muscles also use this protein.
BDNF helps muscles take up glucose from the blood, thereby supporting glucose metabolism.
This protein also protects the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
BDNF supports heart muscle contractions and improves blood circulation in the body.
The brain has billions of neurons and connections. With time, the brain keeps forming new connections and eliminating unused ones.
The brain changing its connections, structure, and function based on external or internal stimuli is called neuroplasticity or brain plasticity.
Brain plasticity is essential for the brain to stay active, upgraded, and fully functional.
BDNF is vital for the process of neuroplasticity.
Alzheimer’s, dementia, depression, and other diseases of the Central Nervous System result from neural degeneration and eventual death of brain cells.
A 2014 study states that higher BDNF levels helped lower the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia by 33%.
Similarly, studies show that dysfunctional or decreased levels of BDNF can affect synaptic plasticity (plasticity occurring at the single-cell level) and lead to depression.
Image courtesy: https://www.frontiersin.org/files/Articles/500839/fncel-14-00082-HTML/image_m/fncel-14-00082-g002.jpg
A 2004 article supported this theory and reported that BDNF supplements could exhibit antidepressant qualities and help treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in patients.
According to a 2020 article, low BDNF levels in the hippocampus region in the brain may increase the risk of developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The BDNF gene controls the production of BDNF proteins in the body. Mutations or changes in this gene can influence BDNF production, affecting the body and the brain.
Studies show that changes in BDNF levels can stimulate a neurotransmitter receptor called glutamate. Overstimulated glutamate receptors can lead to mental fatigue and fibromyalgia (chronic fatigue and muscle pain).
rs11030104 is a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) in the BDNF gene. People with the A allele of this SNP have a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia due to increasing BDNF expression than those with the G allele.
Low levels of BDNF cause dysregulation in the hippocampus region of the brain and can cause feelings of anxiety.
rs6265 is an SNP in the BDNF gene. People with the C allele of this SNP have an increased risk of developing anxiety compared to those with the T allele.
Cognitive function is the ability of the brain to think, reason, remember, make decisions, pay attention, and solve problems.
People with the beneficial C allele of the SNP rs6265 are associated with better cognitive abilities, including enhanced long-term memory and verbal ability, compared to those with the T allele.
The A allele of the SNP rs56164415 in the BDNF gene is associated with an increased risk of developing PTSD compared to those with the G allele.
The BDNF levels decrease with age, and this is natural. This is why the elderly are at higher risk for disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Studies show that BDNF levels increase with physical activity. A sedentary lifestyle can lower BDNF levels in the brain.
The typical western diet, rich in saturated fats, sugar, and carbohydrates, can decrease BDNF levels, especially in the brain’s hippocampus region. This region controls memory, learning, and thinking skills.
According to experts, a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet could enrich BNDF levels.
A 2021 study reported that intermittent fasting (restricting food consumption to a small window and fasting for the rest of the day) could increase BDNF levels and keep the brain healthy.
Chronic stress may reduce the levels of BDNF in the hippocampus region.
Stress can trigger abnormal behaviors by changing the BDNF gene’s expression levels in the brain.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified medical practitioner before making any significant changes to your diet. Do not consume any supplements without the advice of your physician.
BDNF keeps the brain healthy, active, and flexible and helps in brain plasticity. BDNF may strengthen connections between neurons, aiding in healthy cognitive functioning.
Some people could be genetically prone to BDNF imbalance, increasing their risk for mental conditions and cognitive decline.
Genetic testing may help you know if you have a mutated BDNF gene.
Choosing natural BDNF supplements, staying physically active, and living stress-free can all help regulate BDNF levels in the body and brain and keep the brain younger for a long time.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you!
Are you tired of swiping left and right on dating apps, going on countless first dates, and still not finding that special someone? Have you ever wondered if something as simple (yet, complex) as your DNA could influence your search for love? In this article, we dive into the growing field of genetic matchmaking and explore whether our genes can influence love. Get ready to learn about the science behind attraction and the potential benefits and drawbacks of using DNA to find your perfect match.
When we say “attraction,” it often involves the “reward pathway system” of our brains.
This refers to how pleasurable we feel upon doing a particular activity or how rewarding the activity is.
The primary hormone that gives the “rewarding feeling” is dopamine, produced in the hypothalamus.
It is released when we do things that feel good/pleasurable to us. This can include spending time with loved ones or having sex.
When we are attracted to someone, the high levels of dopamine trigger the release of another hormone, norepinephrine, making us feel giddy, energetic, and euphoric.
This partly explains why the first few weeks of dating can be exciting, thrilling, and consuming!
According to research studies, brain scans of people “in love” have shown that the reward centers light up like crazy when shown photos of people they are attracted to.
The role of genetics in influencing compatibility between two people cannot be overlooked.
Specific genes are crucial to predicting the potential for a satisfying sexual experience and a successful marriage.
Other genes influence the traits we seek in a partner.
Studies have shown that specific genes, such as the DRD4 gene, can impact our preferences for certain personality traits in a romantic partner.
For example, individuals with a particular change in the DRD4 gene are more likely to be attracted to adventurous and spontaneous partners.
Similarly, some genes have been linked to our sense of smell and how it influences our attraction to potential partners.
Personality traits significantly influence who we are attracted to and who we form relationships with.
While these traits are shaped by a combination of lifestyle and environmental factors, recent research has shown that there is a genetic component to personality.
Studies have identified specific genes linked to traits such as extraversion, openness, and neuroticism.
For example, the 5-HTTLPR gene has been linked to levels of neuroticism, with specific changes in the gene being associated with higher levels of anxiety and stress.
When it comes to dating, our personality traits can have a significant impact on our preferences for potential partners.
Extroverted individuals may be more likely to be attracted to other extroverted individuals.
On the other hand, those who are more neurotic may prefer more stable and calming partners.
DNA dating, also known as genetic matchmaking, is a new approach to finding romantic partners based on genetic compatibility.
The idea is that analyzing a person’s DNA makes it possible to identify genetic markers associated with compatibility in relationships regarding personality, sexual chemistry, and other essential factors.
This information can then be used to match individuals with partners who are more likely to complement these traits.
DNA dating typically involves taking a DNA sample through a simple cheek swab or saliva sample.
This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to identify specific genetic markers associated with compatibility.
The results of this analysis are then compared with a database of other individuals who have also had their DNA analyzed to find potential matches.
The success of DNA dating is a subject of debate in the scientific community.
Some proponents of DNA dating argue that it offers a more scientific and objective approach to matchmaking than traditional methods such as online dating and matchmaking services.
They argue that analyzing specific genetic markers makes it possible to gain a deeper understanding of a person’s personality and preferences, leading to more compatible and successful relationships.
On the other hand, many experts have raised several concerns about DNA matchmaking.
One issue is the lack of robust scientific evidence to support its claims of more excellent compatibility and success in relationships.
While some genetic markers have been linked to specific personality traits, the relationships between genetics and compatibility are poorly understood.
Furthermore, there is limited research on the long-term outcomes of relationships formed through DNA dating, making it difficult to evaluate its effectiveness.
It is important to note that while genetics shape our personality traits and attractions, they are not the sole determining factor.
Environmental factors such as upbringing and life experiences also significantly influence who we are attracted to and why.
Therefore, it is vital to approach DNA dating cautiously and view it as just one tool in the matchmaking process rather than the sole determinant of compatibility.
DNA matching for love may be a promising concept, but it is still uncertain whether it is possible or practical.
Further research is needed to fully understand the connection between genetics and compatibility and determine the feasibility of using DNA to match individuals for love.
The idea of dating and DNA is a fascinating concept that raises many questions about the role of genetics in our romantic lives.
While our genes may influence certain personality traits, it’s important to remember that they do not dictate who we fall in love with.
Love is a complex and multi-faceted emotion influenced by many factors, including our environment, experiences, and personal preferences.
Ultimately, while our genes may shape who we are and how we behave, they do not determine our fate.
The beauty of love is that it allows us to choose our paths and create our destinies.
So, whether you believe in the power of DNA or not, remember that at the end of the day, it’s up to you to make your own choices and forge relationships.
Are psychopaths born or made? Despite decades of research, the origins of psychopathy remain elusive, with some experts attributing the condition to a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors.
As the debate over the nature vs. nurture of psychopathy continues, many are left wondering if this condition is truly determined by our genes or if the experiences and circumstances of our lives shape it.
In this article, we delve into the latest research on the genetic basis of psychopathy and examine the evidence for and against a genetic cause.
Many behavioral and personality traits have strong genetic influences. Learn more:
Psychopaths are individuals with a lack of empathy, manipulation, impulsiveness, and violence.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), about 1.2% of American men and up to 0.7% of American women may have clinical psychological traits.
Psychopathy is a severe form of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD).
This condition is marked by a lack of empathy, antisocial skills, abnormal emotional responses, and an inability to control impulses.
These conditions are, together, called callous-unemotional traits.
Up to 30% of criminal offenders worldwide exhibit such traits.
According to experts, early measures of these callous-unemotional traits may predict violent criminal activities in the future.
Right now, scientists think that changes in brain structures may be a strong reason why some people develop psychopathic traits and others don’t.
There following are two factors that may encourage changes to the brain structure and circuits.
No one gene or particular environmental factor could lead to psychopathic tendencies in a person.
Instead, a combination of genes and environmental conditions may increase the risk of developing psychopathy.
Psychopathy is not entirely genetic. No one gene causes the condition.
Instead, researchers believe that several genes may play roles in changing brain structures and circuits.
Together, these increase the risk of psychopathic behavior in the individual.
A person could be a carrier of these psychopathic gene variants but not exhibit the traits themselves.
They could pass the genes to their children, who, in turn, could be simply carriers or express the trait.
Several genes are linked to psychopathy, including ANKK1, DRD2, MAOA, COMT, and 5-HTTLPR.
Out of these, the MAOA gene is of particular interest.
Is There A Psychopath Gene?
Many studies suggest that changes in the MAOA (monoamine oxidase A) gene may increase aggressive or violent behavior in people, leading to possible psychopathic behavior.
The MAOA gene gives instructions to produce the monoamine oxidase enzyme.
This enzyme breaks down signaling chemicals in the brain like dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine, and noradrenaline.
These chemicals control mood, determine sleep quality, and act on emotional responses.
Individuals with a particular variant of this gene – the MAOA-L, may produce lower quantities of the monoamine oxidase enzyme.
As a result, there may be an excess build-up of these signaling chemicals in the brain, leading to different impulsive behaviors.
In fact, in 2009, an Italian court reduced the sentence of a convicted murderer by one year, accepting the claim that he had a genetic version of the MAOA gene that encouraged aggressive behavior.
Will everyone with this variant of the MAOA-L gene show psychopathic traits?
Not necessarily!
This version of the MAOA gene only increases the likelihood of exhibiting psychopathic traits with certain environmental triggers.
Some genetic changes may encourage aggressive behavior and a lack of empathy, which can be passed on through generations.
Not all children who inherit these gene changes turn into psychopaths, though. Environmental factors play a role in determining whether or not a person develops these inherited traits.
A 2011 study reports that, genetically, fathers may pass psychopathic traits to their male offspring.
Having a criminally-convicted father increases the risk of male children showing psychopathic traits.
Epigenetics describes how your behaviors and environmental factors can cause changes that affect how your genes work.
Epigenetic changes are reversible and can be altered by behavioral changes or environmental interactions.
Several studies suggest epigenetics could be the connecting factor between genetic and environmental factors that may cause psychopathy.
Genes and environment are tightly intertwined and affect one another when determining psychopathic behavior in individuals.
Studies say that one factor can influence the other.
For instance, a child growing up in an antisocial environment may experience epigenetic changes and develop psychopathic behaviors.
Similarly, a child with psychopathy-causing genetic changes may seek out antisocial environments that support the behavior.
Both genetics and environmental factors don’t directly impart psychopathic traits in people. Instead, these change how the brain is structured and circuited and lead to such characteristics.
According to experts, one part of the brain that is of specific interest in psychopathy is the amygdala. This region controls empathy, social responsiveness, and fear of outcomes.
These experts feel that due to specific genetic changes and environmental factors, the amygdala may be formed differently or change its functioning over time.
When this region of the brain does not work effectively, the person cannot emote, fear, or show empathy as well as others, leading to antisocial behaviors.
Despite strong genetic links to psychopathy, studies claim that up to 50% of the differences in antisocial behaviors, including psychopathic traits, come from environmental influences.
A 2015 meta-analysis that studied heritability traits in twin studies reports that 14-30% of conduct disorders are due to environmental factors.
Identifying gene variants associated with psychopathy can help with early intervention in terms of providing the right environment or therapeutic support.
However, researchers have identified only a handful of genetic variants associated with psychopathy.
More genes could play equally important roles in causing the condition, which are yet to be discovered.
Future research on psychopathy will focus more on epigenetics and try to understand precise interactions between genes and the environment.
Such an understanding can help reduce the risk of individuals developing psychopathic traits.
Specific gene variants can increase one’s risk of developing psychopathy, and one can inherit these genes from the parents.
However, environmental factors like prenatal exposure, parenting techniques, neighborhood, and childhood can influence psychopathic traits equally.
Therefore, both genes and environment are interrelated and are equally important in determining whether or not a person grows to develop antisocial behaviors, including psychopathy.
When should you work out to reduce weight? The debate over the best time of day to exercise for fat loss has been going on for years. Some people swear by working out in the morning, while others prefer to hit the gym after work. So which is better? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind exercising in the morning or evening and help you decide which approach is best for you.
How much weight you lose with exercise is greatly influenced by your genes! Learn more:
Before exploring the benefits of morning vs. evening workouts, we need to get one thing out of the way – the best time to exercise is whenever you can.
Not all of us may have a flexible schedule allowing us to do a 90-minute power-packed workout session, followed by a visit to the juice bar for a dose of green smoothie.
If you can get in a 20-minute workout mid-morning, doing it consistently will yield better results than forcing yourself to wake up at 5 AM and work out (only to miss it 4 out of 7 days).
Nevertheless, morning and evening workouts both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Advantages
Disadvantages
Research has shown that both morning and evening workouts can effectively lose weight.
However, the optimal time of day for exercise may depend on individual factors such as circadian rhythms and personal preferences.
It’s important to remember that consistency and frequency of exercise are key for weight loss, regardless of the time of day.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and the University of Copenhagen in Denmark examined the relationship between exercise time and fat loss in mice.
The results are published in the journal PNAS.
The researchers subjected the 10- to 11-wk-old mice to a 1-hour session of high-intensity exercise twice daily – late morning (early active phase) and late evening (early rest phase).
They then studied the mice’s adipose (fat) tissue to check the markers for fat metabolism and analyze the activities of the genes involved in fat burning.
Some of the fat metabolism markers examined were:
The study observations were as follows:
Even though mice and humans share many physiological functions, it is essential to consider that mice are nocturnal.
More studies are needed to draw reliable conclusions about the relevance of our findings to humans.
If you’re not a morning person, waking up early to exercise can seem daunting.
However, with a few strategies and some persistence, it’s possible to become a morning workout person and stick with it.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
Becoming a morning workout person and sticking with it requires planning, persistence, and patience.
With time and consistency, you may find that waking up early to exercise becomes easier and more enjoyable.
