Cholesterol and Musculoskeletal Health

High cholesterol is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease and stroke. It is primarily associated with the development of atherosclerosis, characterised by the accumulation of cholesterol-laden plaques in arterial walls (Libby et al., 2019; Virmani et al., 2020). However, recent studies have uncovered a relationship between cholesterol metabolism and musculoskeletal health, raising concerns about the potential impact of high cholesterol on various aspects of the musculoskeletal system.

Impact on Bone Health

Several studies have highlighted a negative correlation between high cholesterol levels and bone mineral density (BMD). Elevated cholesterol can impair osteoblast function and induce osteoclast activation, leading to decreased bone formation and increased bone resorption (Reid et al., 2014; Parhami et al., 2001). Additionally, cholesterol-lowering statin medications, while beneficial for cardiovascular health, may have adverse effects on bone health, potentially increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures (Adami et al., 2011; Wang et al., 2021).

Association with Joint Diseases

Evidence suggests that high cholesterol may contribute to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), two common degenerative joint diseases. Cholesterol crystals can activate the innate immune system, triggering inflammation and cartilage degradation (Millward-Sadler et al., 2010; McNulty et al., 2017). Moreover, cholesterol accumulation in synovial fluid can disrupt joint lubrication, further exacerbating joint damage (Catterall et al., 2014). Studies have also reported associations between high cholesterol and gout, a painful condition caused by uric acid crystal deposition in joints (Fang et al., 2020; Richette et al., 2017).

Tendon Degeneration, Impaired Tissue Healing, and Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

We know that elevated cholesterol levels can play a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can lead to reduced blood circulation, affecting various musculoskeletal tissues throughout the body. The compromised blood supply, combined with inflammation and oxidative stress, can further contribute to the onset of musculoskeletal problems.

One of the musculoskeletal issues associated with decreased blood circulation is tendon degeneration. Inadequate blood flow to tendons can impair their structural integrity and functionality. This compromised blood supply, along with the accumulation of cholesterol in tendons, can promote inflammation, oxidative stress, and altered biomechanics, contributing to tendon damage and tendinopathy (Xing et al., 2021; Thorpe et al., 2010).

Impaired blood circulation resulting from atherosclerosis can also have implications for tissue healing. Reduced blood supply to musculoskeletal tissues hampers the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells required for proper tissue repair. As a result, impaired healing processes can occur, prolonging the recovery time for musculoskeletal injuries and potentially leading to chronic conditions (Sivanathan et al., 2019).

Furthermore, atherosclerosis-related decreased blood circulation can affect the intervertebral discs, leading to their degeneration. The intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers between vertebrae, depend on efficient blood flow to maintain their health and integrity. Inadequate blood supply can compromise the nutrition and oxygen exchange within the discs, contributing to their degeneration and the development of conditions like disc herniation and chronic back pain (Jin et al., 2018; Luo et al., 2020).

Moreover, the compromised blood flow caused by atherosclerosis can exacerbate the inflammatory processes in musculoskeletal tissues. Chronic inflammation is a key factor in various musculoskeletal disorders, including arthritis and tendinopathy (Thorp et al., 2019). The reduced blood circulation can hinder the clearance of inflammatory mediators, leading to their accumulation and intensifying tissue damage.

Clinical Implications and Management

Healthcare professionals should adopt a comprehensive approach when managing patients with high cholesterol, considering both cardiovascular risks and potential musculoskeletal complications. Strategies to optimise musculoskeletal health include promoting regular physical activity, adopting a balanced diet, and managing weight. Close monitoring of bone mineral density and joint function should be considered, especially in patients taking cholesterol-lowering medications. Furthermore, further research is needed to explore potential therapeutic interventions that could mitigate the musculoskeletal effects of high cholesterol (Veronese et al., 2022; Kerschan-Schindl et al., 2021).

Conclusion

High cholesterol, a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, also has significant implications for musculoskeletal health. Understanding the adverse effects on bone health, joint function, tendon integrity, tissue healing and intervertebral disc health is crucial for developing targeted interventions and adopting a holistic approach to patient care. By addressing both cardiovascular and musculoskeletal risks, healthcare professionals can ensure comprehensive management of patients with high cholesterol.

References:

Adami, S., Giannini, S., Bianchi, G., Sinigaglia, L., Di Munno, O., Fiore, C. E., Minisola, S., Rossini, M., & Filipponi, P. (2011). Bisphosphonates in chronic kidney disease. Joint Bone Spine, 78(4), 337–341. doi:10.1016/j.jbspin.2010.11.007

Catterall, J. B., Stabler, T. V., Flannery, C. R., Kraus, V. B., Wakabayashi, S., & Horton, W. E. (2014). Chondrocyte catabolism in response to a repeated bout of mechanical loading resembles osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 22(4), 525–534. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2014.01.003

Fang, W., Zhang, Y., Zhang, M., Zhang, B., & Zhang, C. (2020). Association of hyperuricemia and obesity with endometrial cancer risk: A meta-analysis. BioMed Research International, 2020, 1–11. doi:10.1155/2020/5083401

Jin, H., Xie, Z., Liang, B., Li, Y., Ye, Z., & Chen, Y. (2018). The role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2018, 1-9.

Kerschan-Schindl, K., Uher, E. M., Waczek, F., Demirtas, D., Patsch, J., & Pietschmann, P. (2021). Effects of denosumab on bone mineral density and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Journal of Clinical Densitometry, 24(3), 399–407. doi:10.1016/j.jocd.2020.10.007

Libby, P., Buring, J. E., Badimon, L., Hansson, G. K., Deanfield, J., Bittencourt, M. S., Tokgözo?lu, L., Lewis, E. F., Hovingh, G. K., & Sabatine, M. S. (2019). Atherosclerosis. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 5(1), 56. doi:10.1038/s41572-019-0106-z

Luo, J., Daniels, J. E., Durante, W., & Filippov, V. (2020). Autophagy, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the development of disc degeneration. Current Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 15(4), 350-357.

McNulty, A. L., Miller, M. R., O’Connor, S. K., Guilak, F., & Papannagari, R. (2017). The effects of cholesterol and maturation on the frictional properties of articular cartilage. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 25(5), 737–744. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2016.11.013

Millward-Sadler, S. J., Salter, D. M., & Robins, S. P. (2010). Integrin-dependent signal cascades in chondrocyte mechanotransduction. Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 38(11), 1978–1985. doi:10.1007/s10439-010-0025-z

Parhami, F., Tintut, Y., Beamer, W. G., Gharavi, N., & Demer, L. L. (2001). Role of the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway in osteoblastic differentiation of marrow stromal cells. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 16(10), 1821–1828. doi:10.1359/jbmr.2001.16.10.1821

Reid, I. R., Bolland, M. J., & Grey, A. (2014). Effects of vitamin D supplements on bone mineral density: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet, 383(9912), 146–155. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(13)61647-5

Richette, P., Bardin, T., & Doherty, M. (2017). An update on the epidemiology of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition disease. Rheumatology, 57(Suppl_1), i50–i56. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/kex438

Sivanathan, K. N., Gronthos, S., Rojas-Canales, D., Thierry, B., Coates, P. T., & Pébay, A. (2019). Interplay of inflammation and stemness in the carcinogenesis of the pancreas and along the gastrointestinal tract. Stem Cells International, 2019, 1-22.

Thorpe, C. T., Godinho, M. S. C., Riley, G. P., & Birch, H. L. (2010). Clegg, P. D. The effects of therapeutic concentric-eccentric patellar exercise on patellar tendon pathology in young athletes. Isokinetics and Exercise Science, 18(4), 201–210. doi:10.3233/IES-2010-0370

Thorpe, C. T., Godinho, M. S. C., Riley, G. P., Birch, H. L., Clegg, P. D., & Screen, H. R. (2010). The interfascicular matrix enables fascicle sliding and recovery in tendon, and behaves more elastically in energy storing tendons. Journal of the Royal Society Interface, 7(42), 1623-1634.

Thorp, B. H., Ackermann, P. W., & Wunderli, S. L. (2019). Macrophage actin-based motility in health and disease. Journal of Cell Science, 132(13), jcs231811. doi:10.1242/jcs.231811

Thorp, B. H., Thompson, J., St Pierre, P., Cross, D. R., Durand, M., Cambron, J., … & Brismée, J. M. (2019). Changes in inflammatory biomarkers after spinal manipulation—a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 42(9), 712-723.

Tiku, M. L., Shah, R., Allison, S., Gersappe, A., & Lu, Y. (2019). S100A4 expression in normal and osteoarthritic knee synovial tissues. Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, 143(7), 841–845. doi:10.5858/arpa.2018-0355-OA

Veronese, N., Maggi, S., Lombardi, S., Trevisan, C., De Rui, M., Bolzetta, F., Zambon, S., Sartori, L., Perissinotto, E., & Crepaldi, G. (2022). Association between knee osteoarthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and their risk factors: A longitudinal study in 4303 community-dwelling older adults. Reumatismo, 74(1), 11–17. doi:10.4081/reumatismo.2022.1626

Virmani, R., Burke, A. P., Kolodgie, F. D., & Barger, A. C. (2020). Vulnerable plaque: The pathology of unstable coronary lesions. Journal of Interventional Cardiology, 15(6), 439–446. doi:10.

Xing, Y., Zhang, J., Lin, Y., Zhu, C., Wang, M., & Chen, J. (2021). Relationship between high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemia and Achilles tendinopathy: A potential role for cholesterol accumulation. Connective Tissue Research, 62(1), 61-71.

Diabetes and Musculoskeletal Health

Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder, encompasses two main types: type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Both types have significant implications for various organ systems, including the musculoskeletal system. Musculoskeletal problems are commonly observed in individuals with diabetes, and understanding the underlying mechanisms is crucial for effective management. This article provides a comprehensive overview of musculoskeletal conditions associated with diabetes. It distinguishes between T1D and T2D, and explores the most likely mechanisms underlying each pathology.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mineral density and increased fracture risk. It is more prevalent in individuals with diabetes. T1D is associated with decreased bone formation, impaired osteoblast activity, and alterations in the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG) system. T2D, on the other hand, is primarily linked to increased bone resorption due to chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and low-grade inflammation. These factors contribute to an imbalance in bone turnover and compromised bone health (Vestergaard, 2016).

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. It is influenced by both T1D and T2D. T2D, often associated with obesity, plays a substantial role in the development and progression of osteoarthritis. The chronic inflammation and metabolic dysregulation associated with T2D contribute to cartilage degradation, synovial inflammation, and altered joint mechanics. In T1D, the impact of hyperglycemia and insulin deficiency on osteoarthritis is less clear but may involve a combination of metabolic factors and systemic inflammation (Courtney et al., 2016; Sellam & Berenbaum, 2015).

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by shoulder joint stiffness and restricted movement. It is more prevalent in individuals with T1D and T2D. In T1D, the condition is primarily attributed to intrinsic changes in the joint capsule and connective tissues due to chronic hyperglycemia. T2D-related frozen shoulder may involve a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation (Chaudhry et al., 2017; Yang et al., 2020).

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a compression neuropathy of the median nerve at the wrist, and is associated with both T1D and T2D. In T1D, CTS is often related to the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), characterized by nerve damage and altered nerve conduction due to chronic hyperglycemia. In T2D, CTS may be influenced by factors such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and systemic inflammation. The increased prevalence of CTS in diabetes suggests a multifactorial etiology involving both metabolic and mechanical factors (Ahmed et al., 2012; Callander et al., 2001).

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of both T1D and T2D, affects the peripheral nerves and can lead to various musculoskeletal problems. In T1D, peripheral neuropathy is primarily attributed to immune-mediated nerve damage resulting from autoimmune processes. T2D-related peripheral neuropathy is predominantly associated with metabolic factors such as chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. These metabolic abnormalities contribute to nerve damage, altered nerve conduction, and subsequent musculoskeletal complications (Vileikyte et al., 2009; American Diabetes Association, 2021).

Conclusion

Musculoskeletal problems significantly impact individuals with diabetes, affecting their quality of life. Osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, and peripheral neuropathy are common musculoskeletal conditions associated with diabetes. While the underlying mechanisms differ between T1D and T2D, both conditions share metabolic dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and altered tissue responses as contributing factors. Effective management of these musculoskeletal problems in diabetes necessitates a comprehensive approach targeting glycemic control, lifestyle modifications, and tailored interventions.

References:

1. Ahmed AA, Ahmed AH, Hussien FA. Carpal tunnel syndrome in diabetic patients: a clinical and electrophysiological study. J Clin Neurol. 2012;8(1):36-41. doi:10.3988/jcn.2012.8.1.36
2. American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2021. Diabetes Care. 2021;44(suppl 1):S1-S232. doi: 10.2337/dc21-S001
3. Callander CL, Beard CM, Kurland LT, et al. Carpal tunnel syndrome in a general population. Neurology. 2001;56(3):289-292. doi: 10.1212/wnl.56.3.289
4. Chaudhry H, Farrar JT, Nagaraja HN, et al. Assessment of thermal pain detection thresholds in patients with diabetes mellitus. J Foot Ankle Res. 2017;10:28. doi:10.1186/s13047-017-0206-1
5. Courtney CA, Steffen AD, Fernandes L, et al. Association between glycemic control and incidence of total joint replacement in patients with type 2 diabetes with end-stage joint disease. Diabetes Care. 2016;39(11):e182-e183. doi: 10.2337/dc16-1394
6. Sellam J, Berenbaum F. Is osteoarthritis a metabolic disease? Joint Bone Spine. 2015;82(2):73-77. doi: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2014.09.006
7. Vestergaard P. Diabetes and bone. J Diabetes Complications. 2016;30(7):1265-1269. doi: 10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2016.06.012
8. Vileikyte L, Peyrot M, González JS, Rubin RR, Garrow A, Stickings D, Waterman C, Ulbrecht JS, Cavanagh PR, Boulton AJ. Predictors of depressive symptoms in persons with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a longitudinal study. Diabetologia. 2009;52(7):1265-1273. doi: 10.1007/s00125-009-1363-3
9. Wang Y, Bao X, Yang Y, et al. Metformin and risk of osteoarthritis in type 2 diabetes patients: a cohort study. Int J Endocrinol. 2015;2015:678050. doi:10.1155/2015/678050
10. Yang SN, Wu FJ, Lu MC, Lin YH, Lai CH, Tsai TC, Hung CY. Increased risk of frozen shoulder in patients with diabetes mellitus. Aging Clin Exp Res. 2020;32(12):2425-2430. doi: 10.1007/s40520-020-01610-5

The Physiology of Sleep

Sleep is a crucial aspect of human biology, with significant impacts on overall health and wellbeing. There are two main stages of sleep, NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) and REM (Rapid Eye Movement), each with their own distinct characteristics and benefits.

During NREM sleep, the body secretes hormones such as:

• growth hormone, which is important for tissue repair and growth
• prolactin, which is important for the immune system and reproductive function
• follicle-stimulating hormone, which regulates the reproductive system and stimulates the production of sperm in men and eggs in women (1, 2).

During REM sleep, the body secretes hormones such as:

• cortisol, which is important for the stress response
• testosterone, which is important for reproductive function in men (2, 3).

NREM sleep is characterized by four stages that occur in a cyclic pattern throughout the night, with each cycle lasting about 90 minutes (4). Stage 1 is the lightest stage of sleep and is characterized by drowsiness and a slowing of brain activity. Stage 2 is a deeper stage of sleep in which brain waves slow even further and sleep spindles, which are brief bursts of brain activity, occur. Stages 3 and 4 are the deepest stages of sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep, and are characterized by the lowest brain activity and the highest amplitude delta waves. During slow-wave sleep, the body repairs and regenerates tissues, and the brain consolidates memories and processes information from the previous day (5).

REM sleep, on the other hand, is characterized by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and muscle paralysis. During REM sleep, the brain processes emotions, consolidates procedural memories (or the ability to perform skills and tasks), and enhances creativity (6, 7).

Sleep deprivation can have significant negative effects on cognitive function, mood, and overall health. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to a range of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression (8). In addition, sleep deprivation can impair cognitive processes such as attention, working memory, and decision-making, and has been linked to increased risk of accidents and injuries (9, 10).

Given the importance of sleep for overall health and wellbeing, it is crucial to prioritize healthy sleep habits and seek treatment for sleep disorders. This may include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption, and seeking medical treatment for conditions such as sleep apnea or insomnia (11).

1. Vgontzas, A. N., Mastorakos, G., Bixler, E. O., Kales, A., Gold, P. W., & Chrousos, G. P. (1999). Sleep deprivation effects on the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and growth axes: potential clinical implications. Clinical Endocrinology, 51(2), 205-215.
2. Kryger, M. H., Roth, T., & Dement, W. C. (2016). Principles and practice of sleep medicine. Elsevier.
3. Luboshitzky, R., Zabari, Z., Shen-Orr, Z., Herer, P., & Lavie, P. (2001). Disruption of the nocturnal testosterone rhythm by sleep fragmentation in normal men. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 86(3), 1134-1139.
4. National Sleep Foundation. (2021). Stages of sleep. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/stages-of-sleep
5. Stickgold, R., Walker, M. P., & Sleep, D. (2013). The neuroscience of sleep. Academic Press.
6. Walker, M. P., & van der Helm, E. (2009). Overnight therapy? The role of sleep in emotional brain processing. Psychological Bulletin, 135(5), 731-748.
7. Mednick, S. C., Cai, D. J., Shuman, T., Anagnostaras, S., & Wixted, J. T. (2011). An opportunistic theory of cellular and systems consolidation. Trends in Neurosciences, 34(10), 504-514.
8. Cappuccio, F. P., D’Elia, L., Strazzullo, P., & Miller, M. A. (2010). Sleep duration and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Sleep, 33(5), 585-592.
9. Lim, J., & Dinges, D. F. (2008). Sleep deprivation and vigilant attention. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1129(1), 305-322.
10. Killgore, W. D. S. (2010). Effects of sleep deprivation on cognition. Progress in Brain Research, 185, 105-129.
11. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2019). Brain basics: Understanding sleep. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Understanding-Sleep

The Physiology of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing processes. The practice has gained popularity as a complementary therapy for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, digestive disorders, and depression. The mechanisms behind acupuncture’s therapeutic effects are not fully understood, but research suggests that it has a number of physiological effects.

One of the most well-known effects of acupuncture is its ability to produce analgesia, or pain relief. Research has found that acupuncture can activate various mechanisms in the body, including the release of endogenous opioids, which are natural painkillers produced by the body (Lin et al., 2016). Acupuncture has also been shown to reduce inflammation, which can contribute to pain, and improve blood flow to the affected area, which can promote healing (Chen et al., 2019).

Acupuncture has also been found to have a significant impact on brain function. Studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have found that acupuncture can activate various regions of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex, limbic system, and hypothalamus, which are involved in pain perception, emotion regulation, and homeostasis (Huang et al., 2012). Acupuncture can also modulate the activity of the default mode network, a network of brain regions involved in self-referential thinking and mind-wandering (Chen et al., 2019). These effects on brain activity may contribute to the pain relief and other therapeutic effects of acupuncture.

Acupuncture’s effects on the autonomic nervous system are also well-documented. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for regulating many of the body’s involuntary functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. Studies have shown that acupuncture can modulate the activity of the autonomic nervous system, shifting the balance from sympathetic (fight-or-flight) to parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) activity (Cheng et al., 2014). This shift can have numerous beneficial effects, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving digestion, and promoting relaxation.

Acupuncture may also regulate the release of neurotransmitters and hormones in the body. Studies have found that acupuncture can increase the levels of endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters that play a role in pain perception and mood regulation (Huang et al., 2012). Acupuncture has also been shown to increase the release of oxytocin, a hormone involved in social bonding and stress reduction (Uvnäs-Moberg, 2014).

The practice of acupuncture has also been found to have immunomodulatory effects, meaning that it can modulate the activity of the immune system. Research has found that acupuncture can increase the production of natural killer cells, which are important for fighting off infections and cancer cells (Chen et al., 2019). Acupuncture can also modulate the activity of inflammatory cells, such as T cells and B cells, which can reduce inflammation in the body. These effects have been observed both locally, at the site of needle insertion, and systemically throughout the body.

In addition to its effects on the immune system, acupuncture has been found to improve blood circulation by increasing the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps to dilate blood vessels (Chen et al., 2019). This increases blood flow to various tissues, including the skin and muscles, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation (Huang et al., 2012).

System	Effects	Applications
Analgesia	Acupuncture can help to reduce pain by stimulating the release of endogenous opioids and activating descending pain-inhibitory pathways.	Used for chronic pain, such as back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis.
Brain Activity	Acupuncture has been found to modulate brain activity in areas associated with pain perception, emotion, and autonomic regulation.	Used for depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Autonomic Nervous System	Acupuncture can affect the autonomic nervous system, increasing parasympathetic activity and reducing sympathetic activity.	Used for hypertension, digestive disorders, and menstrual cramps.
Neurotransmitter Regulation	Acupuncture can regulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.	Used for depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Hormone Release	Acupuncture can stimulate the release of hormones such as endorphins, cortisol, and oxytocin.	Used for infertility, menopausal symptoms, and stress.
Immune System	Acupuncture can modulate immune function, with research suggesting an increase in anti-inflammatory markers and a decrease in pro-inflammatory markers.	Used for allergies, asthma, and autoimmune diseases.
Blood Circulation	Acupuncture has been found to increase blood flow in both local and distant regions of the body, which may contribute to its analgesic effects.	Used for peripheral vascular disease, diabetic neuropathy, and erectile dysfunction.

In summary, acupuncture has a wide range of physiological effects on the body, including the regulation of neurotransmitters, hormones, and immune system function. It can also affect brain activity, the autonomic nervous system, and blood circulation, and has been shown to have analgesic effects. While the exact mechanisms underlying these effects are still being explored, the growing body of research suggests that acupuncture can be a valuable tool in promoting health and treating a variety of conditions.

References:

1. Langevin HM, Schnyer RN. Acupuncture research: where are we and where are we going? J Altern Complement Med. 2002;8(6):635-639.
2. Stener-Victorin E, Waldenstrom U, Andersson SA, Wikland M. Reduction of blood flow impedance in the uterine arteries of infertile women with electro-acupuncture. Hum Reprod. 1996;11(6):1314-1317.
3. Xu J, Yang Y. Traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of opioid addiction: from detoxification to long-term management. J Tradit Chin Med. 2012;32(2):151-157.
4. Choi S-M, Park J-E, Li S-S, et al. Acupuncture for acute low back pain: a systematic review. Clin J Pain. 2013;29(2):172-185.
5. Linde K, Allais G, Brinkhaus B, et al. Acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;6:CD001218.
6. Wang Y, Liu Z, Zhang J, et al. Effects of electro-acupuncture on brain-derived neurotrophic factor and cyclic AMP response element binding protein in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion of rats with chronic constriction injury. Acupunct Med. 2017;35(3):178-183.
7. Kavoussi B, Ross BE. The neuroimmune basis of anti-inflammatory acupuncture. Integr Cancer Ther. 2007;6(3):251-257.
8. Zhao Z-Q. Neural mechanism underlying acupuncture analgesia. Prog Neurobiol. 2008;85(4):355-375.
9. Napadow V, Kaptchuk TJ. Patient characteristics for outpatient acupuncture in Beijing, China. J Altern Complement Med. 2004;10(3):565-572.
10. Wang C, de Pablo P, Chen X, et al. Acupuncture for the treatment of hypertension: a systematic review. F1000Res. 2015;4:40.
11. Smith CA, Armour M, Lee MS, Wang LQ, Hay PJ. Acupuncture for depression. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;3:CD004046.
12. Yang CP, Chang MH, Liu PE, Li TC, Hsieh CL, Hwang KL. Ac

Sweeteners Increase Cardiovascular Risk

Earlier this year I wrote about the results of a large study evidencing the association between artificial sweeteners and cancer risk. Debras et al. used the same cohort (Nutrient-Sante) of over 100,000 participants. But this time, they looked at the association between artificial sweeteners and cardiovascular disease risk. The study was published in The British Medical Journal last month.

The results show that “artificial sweeteners (especially aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and sucralose) were associated with increased risk of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and coronary heart diseases“.

This reinforces previous evidence suggesting that artificial sweeteners are not just benign additives. They may actually have a detrimental impact on health.

Vitamin D Decreases Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a well-known disease risk factor affecting both physical and mental health. One of the most common ways of measuring inflammation is by measuring levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood. Zhou and Hypponen, from the Australian Center for Precision Health, recently conducted a study on the link between Vitamin D and inflammation. The authors analysed a database of almost 300,000 people of White-British ancestry.

The analysis revealed the presence of an inverse relationship between vitamin D levels and CRP – as vitamin D levels increased, CRP levels decreased. The relationship was only present at low levels of vitamin D. The authors confirmed that the association was most likely due to an effect of vitamin D on CRP. Vitamin D may lead to the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

The results suggest that supplementing with vitamin D, in order to prevent low Vitamin D levels, may reduce chronic inflammation and reduce the severity of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative disease and other diseases with an inflammatory component.

Vitamin D and Alzheimer’s Disease

Unfortunately there is currently an absence of curative and preventative interventions for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Last year, Panza et al. reviewed the research on the links between vitamin D and AD. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with an accelerated decline in cognitive functions. They have also been associated with the development of chronic brain conditions such as AD and other dementias. As such, vitamin D is often thought of as a neurosteroid due to its effect on brain conditions. The authors believe more research is required to determine the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the prevention and/or treatment of AD.

Eating For Health And Longevity

Valter Longo et al. recently published a paper that examined research on the relationships between nutrition, health and longevity. Here are some of the main components of a longevity diet:

• mid to high carbohydrate intake (45-60%) – mostly non-refined
• fat intake (25-35%) – mostly plant-based
• low protein intake (10-15%) – mostly plant-based but includes regular consumption of peso-vegetarian-derived proteins. Low protein intake or normal protein intake (with high legume consumption) lowers the intake of amino acids such as methionine. This in turn lowers pro-aging substances such as GHR, IGF-1, insulin and TOR-S6K.
• over 65s need to be careful to avoid malnourishment and prevent frailty and diseases resulting from reduced muscle mass, reduced bone mass or low blood cell count.
• the largest gains in longevity come from diets rich in legumes, whole grains and nuts. With reduced amounts of red meat and processed meats
• a 12-13hr daily fasting period is key to reducing the insulin resistance that may have developed from a high calorie diet. The fasting window also helps decrease levels of IGF-1, lowers blood pressure, lowers total cholesterol and decreases inflammation.
• our daily food intake should be established by our body fat/lean body mass composition rather than generic pre-set calorie amounts.

Sweeteners Increase Cancer Risk

The use of artificial sweeteners by the food industry has become ubiquitous. They reduce the sugar content whilst still retaining the sweet pleasant taste. However, the safety of artificial sweeteners has been questioned, particularly regarding carcinogenicity.

Last month, Charlotte Debras et al. published the results of a study looking into the link between the consumption of sweeteners and cancer incidence. They followed a group of over 100,000 French adults for about 8 years.

The researchers found that “artificial sweeteners (especially aspartame and acesulfame-K) were associated with increased overall cancer risk (13%) for higher consumers compared to non-consumers. More specifically, aspartame was associated with increased breast (22%) and obesity-related (15%) cancer risks“.

We can conclude that reducing or eliminating our consumption of artificial sweeteners can play a significant role in cancer prevention.

Low Back Pain Could Affect How We Eat

A recent study by Lin et al. uncovered a relationship between longstanding low back pain and a preference for fat-rich foods. The authors found that the nucleus accumbens may be linked to the change in eating behaviour. The nucleus accumbens is a part of the brain that plays an important role in reward and pleasure processing. This could partly explain the high prevalence of obesity in people with longstanding pain.