Do you like hot dogs, sausages, bacon, salami and all the meaty things in your sandwich? Or are you that healthy eater who would make a nice salad, but add a few pieces of salami. Well, then, this may not be the best thing to do. As per a new study published in the journal Neurology, found that these cured meats may be linked to developing dementia and cognitive decline as you age.

Since the study came out, health authorities have urged people to reduce their intake of processed red meat because of its links with cardiovascular disease, cancer and Type 2 diabetes. As per the researchers it is because of the high levels of sodium and saturated fats, and chemical additives like nitrated and nitrites found in processed red meat that causes cognitive issues.

What did the study find?

The study found that if one person replaces just one daily serving of processed red meat with plant proteins like nuts and legumes, it could lower the risk of dementia by 19%. This means, the person would spend 1.37 fever years of cognitive aging. There are other non-vegetarian alternatives too, like replacing the processed red meat with chicken and fish, which could lower the risk of dementia and reduced cognitive aging.

Senior author of the study Daniel Wang, and an assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health noted that by replacing processed red meats with other sources of protein, you decrease your intake of harmful ingredients. This in a way also increases the intake of beneficial nutrients.

Also Read: Should You Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods?

How was the study conducted?

The researchers studied the data on more than 133,000 men and women in the United States. These participants were tracked for more than 40 years. The participants were part of two different groups of nurses, doctors, dentists, and other health professionals who on a regular basis answered questions about their diets, weight, physical activity and other lifestyle habits.

The tests evaluated the memory of the participants and tested their cognitive functions at various points throughout the study. They were also asked to fill questionnaires that explored any self-reported issues with memories and mental abilities, this measure is also known as "subjective cognitive decline", which is used to detect early stages of worsening cognitive function.

The researchers also found that those who ate a quarter of serving of processed red meat or more per day, had 13% higher risk of developing dementia, compared with people who ate little of no processed red meat. The same also had 14% higher risk of subjective cognitive decline.

Unprocessed red meats were also looked at and it was found that they were not associated with higher risk of developing dementia or worse cognitive function.

Are there any limitations?

As per experts, while they appreciate the new findings and have said that it is very important to focus on dietary habits, many have also pointed out on the limitations. In fact, the authors themselves have cautioned that their study was observation, which means it does not prove a causation. The study also did not account for other lifestyle habits, other than dietary practices.

Energy drink is linked with stroke risk was found out when a fit 54-year-old man suffered stroke. Previously Health and Me also reported about the man, a non-smoker and non-drinker, who suffered stroke, thanks to his habit of consuming energy drinks. The doctors found his blood pressure to be sky rocketing. His left side of the body was weak, he lost balance, had trouble walking and speaking.

Another similar case comes from Canada, where a 10-year-old also suffered a seizure, consuming just two energy drinks in the week.

Experts are now weighing in if it is at all safe for anyone to consume energy drink.

Read: How Energy Drinks Nearly Killed a Healthy 54-Year-Old Runner

Energy Drink: Are They Safe To Consume?

As per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), energy drinks are "pure and highly concentrated caffeine products can have serious health consequences, including death."

A BMJ study from 2025, Energy drinks, hypertension and stroke, found high morbidity and mortality rates associated with stroke and cardiovascular disease linked to high-sugar drink consumption.

Energy Drink: What Do experts Think Of Its Safety?

Speaking to wmur.com, Dr Raj Dasgupta, a board-certified physical who specializes in internal medicine, pulmonology critical care, and sleep medicine said, "Caffeine is a stimulant, which means it increases activity in your brain and nervous system."

Caffeine keeps us awake by blocking adenosine, the brain chemical responsible for making us feel drowsy. Energy drinks boost alertness and focus partly by increasing adrenaline levels, though how strong the effects feel and how long they last can vary based on the person and the amount of caffeine consumed.

What Makes Energy Drinks Different From Coffee?

The short answer is that it depends. The energy drink market is huge, and there is no one-size-fits-all comparison. That said, many energy drinks do contain more caffeine per serving than a regular cup of coffee.

An average 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee has about 95 to 100 mg of caffeine. Energy drinks, on the other hand, can range widely, often providing anywhere between 70 and 200 mg per serving. The actual impact depends on how much you drink and how your body responds to caffeine.

Where The Caffeine In The Energy Drink Comes From Matters

Not all caffeine is created equal. The source can influence the drink’s overall nutritional value.

Some natural sources, like green tea, come with added benefits such as antioxidants and trace minerals. Ingredients like guarana and yerba mate also contain natural compounds that may support mood and energy levels. In contrast, highly processed or artificial caffeine sources usually do not offer these extra benefits.

The Sugar Problem Of Energy Drinks

One of the biggest differences between coffee and energy drinks is sugar. Coffee can be customized, so you control how much sugar goes in. Many energy drinks, however, are loaded with added sugar.

For example, a single 16-ounce can of some popular energy drinks can contain over 60 grams of sugar, well above the recommended daily limit. Some brands use artificial sweeteners instead, which research has linked to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke over time.

How Safe Are Energy Drinks?

Health experts agree that moderation is key, regardless of your caffeine source. Most healthy adults can safely consume up to 400 mg of caffeine per day.

Too much caffeine can cause shakiness, poor sleep, a racing heartbeat, headaches, or stomach issues. Over time, excessive intake can also lead to dependence, meaning you need more caffeine to feel the same effect.

Who Should Be Extra Careful Before Consuming Energy Drinks?

Certain people should be more cautious with energy drinks. Caffeine can worsen anxiety and interfere with sleep, especially for those already struggling with these issues. People with heart conditions may also need to limit or avoid caffeine since it can raise heart rate and blood pressure.

While labels may highlight antioxidants or added supplements, the high sugar, caffeine, and preservatives often cancel out these benefits. The same nutrients can be found more reliably in whole foods like fruits and vegetables.

As the use of anti-obesity medicines like Ozempic continues to grow, more people are trying to understand what daily life looks like on these injections. Beyond weight loss results, concerns often centre on side effects, especially those linked to digestion. Many users of GLP-1 agonist medicines report gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and heartburn. In recent months, another pattern has caught attention. Several people say they feel sick after eating greasy or oily food.

To understand why this happens, we spoke to Dr Pratayksha Bhardwaj, World Record Holder Dietician and Weight Management Specialist, who explains that this reaction is more common than people realise.

What Ozempic Does Inside the Body

Ozempic, medically known as semaglutide, was originally developed to help manage Type 2 diabetes. It is now widely prescribed for weight management because of how it influences appetite and digestion.

According to Dr Bhardwaj, Ozempic works by slowing down gastric emptying and acting on appetite-regulating centres in the brain. “Food stays in the stomach longer, and the feeling of fullness comes earlier than usual,” he explains. This change helps people eat less but also alters how the body handles certain foods.

Why Greasy Food Can Trigger Nausea On Ozempic

Fatty and oily foods naturally take longer to digest. When this process is further slowed by Ozempic, the stomach can struggle to cope with heavy meals.

Dr Bhardwaj says that eating large portions, especially foods high in fat, can overwhelm the digestive system. “When fatty foods sit in the stomach for too long, they can trigger nausea, vomiting, or even diarrhoea,” he notes. This is why some people feel unwell shortly after eating fried snacks, fast food, or rich gravied dishes.

Is This an Allergy or Something Else?

Many patients worry that vomiting after eating greasy food might be a sign of an allergic reaction. Dr Bhardwaj clarifies that this is not the case. “This response is physiological, not allergic,” he says. It reflects how the body adapts to the medication rather than an intolerance to the drug itself.

Clinically, doctors observe that tolerance for oily foods drops sharply after starting Ozempic. Vomiting is more commonly reported during the early stages of treatment or when the dose is being gradually increased.

Can This Side Effect Be Beneficial?

Interestingly, this reaction can support healthier eating habits. Dr Bhardwaj points out that the discomfort acts as a natural reminder to change food choices. Patients are often advised to eat smaller portions, reduce fat intake, and include more fibre-rich vegetables in their meals.

Lower-fat foods are easier to digest and less likely to cause nausea. Over time, many people find that their preferences shift away from heavy, greasy meals.

When to Seek Medical Advice?

While occasional nausea can be expected, persistent vomiting should not be ignored. Dr Bhardwaj advises consulting a doctor if symptoms continue. In some cases, a dose adjustment or personalised nutrition plan may be needed to reduce discomfort while continuing treatment safely.

Ozempic can be effective, but understanding how it interacts with food is key to managing side effects and maintaining long-term health.

Lionel Messi is here in India and is ready for his touch down in Delhi on December 15 as part of his GOAT (Greatest of All Time) Tour's India visit. Argentina's World Cup-winning captain is also set to visit Hyderabad after his visit in Delhi, for now, he has met his fans in Mumbai and Kolkata. All things said and done, what every one is always curious about is a sports person's fitness regime. The 38-year-old football star undergoes a strict fitness regime, which includes consistency, but it is not based on heavy lifting, but agility training, and a simple not-too-fancy diet.

However, his fitness journey was not traditional in any manner. In fact, during his early years, he was known for eating without much of a thought. So, what changed him? What is his secret to a fit life?

How Messi Changed His Eating Habits To Stay Fit

In 2013-14 World Cup, which was disappointing for Messi, ESPN India reported that Messi improved his performance by adapting a new diet. Charly Rexach, the then FC Barcelona's sporting director, who signed the then 13-year-old Messi to the club in 2000 on a napkin, said that Messi had previously "eaten too many pizzas".

In an interview to America TV's La Cornisa, Messi admitted about his eating habits and poor diet, which had even led to bouts of vomiting, nausea, and even lethargy. The footballer said, "I don't know what I ate, but I ate badly for many years. At 22, 23...[it was] chocolate, alfajores [South American sandwich cookies], fizzy drinks."

It was nutritionist Giuliano Poser who helped Messi make changes in 2014. His diet was nothing fancy, nothing too difficult, but it was controlled.

Five Pillars Of Messi's New Diet

Messi's new diet was based on five pillars:

• Water
• Olive oil
• Whole grains
• Fruits
• Vegetables

Messi also shared in an interview, "Now I eat well: fish, meat, vegetables, salads. Everything is organized and taken care of. Sometimes a bit of wine, but that's not a problem."

This diet helped him reduce inflammation and recover his muscles faster. When it came to avoiding certain foods Poser stressed the importance of eating little sugar and refined flour. Poser called these two "the worst thing for the muscles". "The farther he stays away from sugars, the better. Refined flours are also a big problem as these days, it’s difficult to find uncontaminated wheat.”

Water

Studies published in the Journal of Athletic Training and Journal of Physical Therapy Science, show that dehydration increases markers of muscle damage and inflammation after exercise. Research also notes that adequate hydration supports blood flow and nutrient delivery, which are essential for muscle repair.

Olive oil

Research in Nature and the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry highlights that extra virgin olive oil contains oleocanthal and polyphenols, compounds shown to have anti-inflammatory effects similar to mild anti-inflammatory drugs, helping reduce muscle soreness and inflammation.

Whole grains

According to studies in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, whole-grain intake is associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein, a key marker of inflammation. Their complex carbohydrates and magnesium content support muscle function and recovery after physical activity.

Fruits

Research published in Nutrients and Sports Medicine shows that antioxidant-rich fruits like berries and citrus help reduce oxidative stress caused by exercise, which can otherwise delay muscle recovery and increase inflammation.

Vegetables

Large observational studies, including reports in The BMJ, link high vegetable intake with reduced systemic inflammation. Their vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals support immune response and tissue repair, aiding post-exercise muscle recovery.

What Does Messi's Workout Regime Look Like? 3s Of Messi's Fitness

As per reports, Messi's training is not as rigorous as players like Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo, but it does not mean that there is not consistency. In fact, his primary training focuses on three factors:

• Speed
• Strength
• Stretching

The footballer’s fitness does not come from heavy weightlifting. Instead, it is built on a balanced routine that focuses on strength training, agility, speed, extensive stretching, and overall muscle health. His workouts include short, explosive sprints, bounding drills like hurdle hops and pillar skips, all aimed at keeping his body sharp, responsive, and match-ready.