Brain Plastic, Zombie Fungus & the 90-Minute Fix

Hey there, health seekers! 👋

If you caught last week’s edition, you already know - we’re here to bring you the most fascinating, science-backed health discoveries from all corners of wellness -naturopathy, functional medicine, Ayurveda, TCM, and beyond.

This week, we’ve got 7 eye-opening stories—from brain-plastic warnings to fiber breakthroughs—and a bonus health tip that’s actually sweet (and smart).

Grab a cup of tea (or purple juice 🍇) and let’s get into it!

1. 🧠 Microplastics in Human Brains - and Possible Dementia Links

Here’s a wild one: microscopic plastic particles have been found accumulating in human brains, and levels are surging in recent years. A new study from the University of New Mexico examined autopsied brain tissue from 2016 to 2024 and found ~50% more microplastic in 2024 samples. Brains from people with dementia had significantly higher levels than those without. While not definitive proof, researchers say these pollutants could be contributing to neurodegeneration. A chilling reminder to go plastic-free - your brain may thank you. (LA Times)

2. 🐛 TCM Herb “Zombie Fungus” That Boosts Endurance & Brain Power

Cordycepin, a powerful compound from the famed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) fungus Cordyceps, just proved its mettle in a mouse study. Animals given cordycepin ran farther, recovered faster, and showed sharper memory under fatigue compared to others. Published in Scientific Reports, this adds modern science to ancient Eastern medicine's trust in the “zombie fungus” for energy and brain support. Researchers say this Traditional Chinese Medicine remedy could one day inspire new “anti-fatigue” supplements for humans. (News Medical Life Sciences)

3. 🧘‍♀️ Yoga and Ayurveda Shines in Modern Trials

Eastern wisdom is earning serious scientific cred. India’s premier hospital, AIIMS, reported over 28 studies showing Yoga and Ayurvedic treatments can improve conditions like heart disease, stroke recovery, epilepsy, migraines, insomnia, diabetes and even pregnancy outcomes. At a recent international integrative medicine conference, AIIMS doctors showcased rigorous trials where yoga protocols and herbal medicines were used alongside standard care – with impressive results. It’s a big win for Ayurveda and Yoga getting the evidence-based thumbs-up alongside allopathic medicine. (Times of India)

4. 🥗 Personalized Fiber Diets - The Next Big Thing in Nutrition

Fiber is not one-size-fits-all! Australian food scientists (RMIT University) have reclassified dietary fibers into new categories to target specific health needs. Just as different meds treat different issues, different fiber types (from fruits, veggies, beans, grains) have unique effects – some better for gut health, others for blood sugar or heart health. The team studied 20 fiber types and even created a “fiber fingerprint” based on structure and fermentation rate. Published in Food Research International, this could help dietitians and functional medicine practitioners craft fiber-rich diets tailored to boost digestion, metabolism, or immunity. Time to diversify those fibers! (RMIT University)

5. 💔 Cannabis Use Linked to Higher Heart Attack Risks in Young Adults

Recreational cannabis may be natural, but it’s not risk-free. Two large new studies (presented at the American College of Cardiology) found that regular cannabis users – even under age 50 – had a significantly higher risk of heart attack than non-users. A review of 4.6 million health records showed cannabis users were over 6 times more likely to have a heart attack before 50. And a meta-analysis of 75 million people found a 50% higher heart attack risk in current users. Doctors say as cannabis use rises, so do warnings: moderation and heart check-ups are key, and clinicians should ask patients about marijuana use just like they do about smoking. (American College of Cardiology)

6. 🧬 Alzheimer’s Drug Leqembi Shows Uneven Results for Women

The latest FDA-approved Alzheimer’s drug, lecanemab (Leqembi), might not work equally well for everyone. A McGill University analysis of the Phase 3 trial indicates women saw much less benefit from the drug than men. Overall, lecanemab slowed cognitive decline by ~27%, but when researchers simulated trial results, they found little to no improvement in the female subgroup. There’s not enough evidence to say it’s ineffective in women, but this finding flags an important issue: future Alzheimer’s treatments may need to account for biological sex differences. In short, precision medicine isn’t just a buzzword – it might be key to giving everyone the best possible outcome. (McGill University)

7. 🏞️ Nature Scenes Soothe Pain - Now Proven in Brain Scans

Simply viewing nature might reduce physical pain by changing how our brain processes it. In a new study (University of Vienna & University of Exeter), people exposed to calming natural scenes during mild electric shocks reported less pain – and MRI scans showed lower activity in pain centers of the brain. This effect even occurs with virtual nature - such as nature videos. Published in Nature Communications, this research suggests nature-based therapy could become a legit tool for pain management (no pills needed!) (University of Vienna)

Stay tuned for next week’s round-up of naturopathic nuggets, wellness wisdom, and holistic health news. Until then, take care and be well! 🔆