Category: 8. Health

A new, refined dietary self-management education plan, highlighting vegetable oil, has shown positive results in a faster reduction in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total bilirubin (TBIL) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).¹

Although unhealthy, fat-heavy diets are well known to lead to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, they have rarely been investigated in the progression of CHB-induced liver cirrhosis. Despite this, unsaturated fats, such as those from vegetable oils, are associated with significant health benefits, reducing inflammation and influencing organ metabolism. Additionally, it is proven to put less stress on the liver by preventing steatosis.²

This discrepancy led investigators to form a novel personalized care project of dietary self-management restricting oil intake for patients with obesity and CHB, but recommending moderate vegetable oil intake for normal and asthenic patients with CHB.¹

“The assessment data revealed that the personalized vegetable oil dietary self-management had contributed to the reduction of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) values but did not present the effects on the clearance rate of HBsAg at present,” wrote Yuan-Yuan Wang, Nantong Third People’s Hospital, and colleagues. “These results indicated that an appropriate vegetable oil diet should be beneficial to the CHB patients in the clinic with the promotion of liver recovery during the treatment period.”¹

The double-arm randomized observational study, conducted in Nantong, China, compared this refined education plan against traditional dietary education to quantify any potential quality of life improvements. A total of 90 participants were enrolled, all of whom were HBsAg-positive. They were then divided in a 1:1 ratio to either the revised dietary plan or the traditional. Investigators established indices of ALT, AST, and TBIL as the primary endpoint.¹

Normal-weight and underweight participants were recommended a moderate fat intake, with fats sourced from vegetable oils such as soybean, flaxseed, olive, and palm. Underweight participants were also advised to consume whole milk to ensure dietary fat intake for metabolic balance. Overweight participants were given the standard intervention of a prescribed low-fat, high-dietary fiber diet. Investigators took their physiological detection results 6 months after enrollment.¹

Baseline ALT for the refined and control group was 96.31 +/- 4.15 U/L and 90.34 +/- 4.42 U/L, respectively. Baseline AST was 112.08 +/- 6.63 U/L and 123.54 +/- 6.51 U/L, respectively, and baseline TBIL was 80.22 +/- 3.38 µmol/L and 81.72 +/- 3.01 µmol/L, respectively. Of the patients in the refined group, 5 had diabetes and 3 had hypertension in addition to CHB. In the control group, 3 had diabetes and 2 had hypertension.¹

After 6 months, patients in the refined group had an index reduction in ALT, AST, and TBIL to 61.01 (U/L), 75.26 (U/L), and 35.37 (µmol/L) on average, respectively. The control group had an index decrease to 89.03, 109.23, and 58.08 on average. Average exercise values rose from 1615.56 kJ to 1932.31 kJ and from 1437.47 kJ to 1877.58 kJ, respectively. The average value of dietary intake was relatively stable across both groups, changing from 7389.98 kJ to 7700.64 kJ in the refined group and from 7411.11 kJ to 7183.87 kJ in the control group.¹

Ultimately, Wang and colleagues noted a substantially larger decrease in ALT, AST, and TBIL indexes after 6 months in the refined group compared to the control group. The team suggests these data indicate the overall benefit of using vegetable oils over animal oils in dietary self-management education.¹

“Overall, these results demonstrated that the refined personalized dietary self-management had better efficacy on accelerating the liver recovery in CHB patients, having the potential to be extended in a larger cohort for exploring its worth in clinical care,” Wang and colleagues wrote.¹

References

1. Wang Y, Yao Y, Sun Y, Qian X. Personalized Dietary Self-Management and its Influence on Disease Progression in Chronic Hepatitis B. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. 2025;2025(1). https://doi.org/10.1155/jnme/5585004

2. Ravaut G, Légiot A, Bergeron KF, Mounier C. Monounsaturated Fatty Acids in Obesity-Related Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;22(1):330. Published 2020 Dec 30. doi:10.3390/ijms22010330

We know that exercise has numerous health benefits, but does it matter how much you spread it out? Even only working out on the weekends may still reduce some people’s risk of early death, according to a new study.

Researchers were interested in how people might build physical activity into busy schedules and decided to focus on those with diabetes, for whom exercise-related benefits such as reduced insulin resistance are particularly important.

“Many people struggle to engage in regular physical activity throughout the week due to time constraints,” the team from the US, China, and Australia writes in their published paper.

“To overcome this, some condense their recommended moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) into 1 or 2 weekly sessions – a pattern known as the ‘weekend warrior’ approach.”

Related: Ideal Number of Daily Steps Isn’t as Many as We’ve Been Told

The researchers crunched the numbers on 51,650 adults with diabetes, splitting them into four groups: those who did no MVPA, those who did less than the recommended 150 minutes per week, those who hit 150 minutes a week in 3 or more sessions, and those who managed 150 minutes a week in 1–2 sessions (the weekend warriors).

Any level of exercise was shown to be beneficial, but primarily for those who managed the MVPA recommendations. People who participated in 3 or more weekly sessions had a 17 percent lower risk of dying during the study period, as well as a 19 percent lower risk of dying from cardiovascular-related issues.

The weekend warriors fared even better: this group showed a 21 percent lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 33 percent lower risk of cardiovascular-related mortality. So even if you only have time for a single exercise session or a couple of workouts, you can still get some of the same health benefits.

“Even those who engaged in MPVA for less than 150 minutes per week experienced lower all-cause mortality than those who didn’t,” writes the team.

“This underscores the importance of any physical activity for people with diabetes.”

The study doesn’t establish cause and effect and by its use of self-reported data to look at a snapshot in time – and in only covering people with diabetes. However, it’s backed by many previous studies that show any amount of exercise can make a difference.

Most past research has agreed that the weekend warrior approach works as well as any other: as long as you’re hitting those recommended targets, you get the same benefits in terms of both physical health and mental health.

That’s encouraging for anyone struggling to fit in gym visits during the Monday-Friday grind, but most studies (including this latest one) define weekend warriors as those who only exercise properly 1–2 times a week, regardless of the days.

“Previous studies in the general population suggest weekend warriors may obtain comparable mortality benefits to regularly active persons, though estimates vary by population characteristics (for example, non-leisure-time physical activity),” write the researchers.

The research has been published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Protein plays a key role in reducing inflammation and supporting metabolic health—two factors that can make weight loss more achievable and sustainable. While no single food guarantees weight loss, some high-protein options offer added benefits that support overall well-being. “Choosing anti-inflammatory proteins helps to lower chronic inflammation that drives insulin resistance,” says Kaitlin Hippley, M.Ed., RDN, LD, CDCES. “When insulin resistance is high, blood sugars rise, fat storage is activated and losing weight can become more challenging.”

“There’s really no such thing as a ‘weight loss protein,’” adds Marissa Beck, M.S., RDN. “The real health benefit comes from choosing a variety of protein sources that support overall health by lowering inflammation, improving cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar.”

Read on for a closer look at the anti-inflammatory protein foods that dietitians recommend most, and why they’re worth adding to your plate.

1. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish are top-tier when it comes to anti-inflammatory protein sources. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, these fish support heart and brain health—plus, they help reduce inflammation. “Salmon is my number one favorite and highest recommended protein source when following an anti-inflammatory diet because of its high levels of omega-3 fats and micronutrients,” says Lindsay Fencl, RDN. These healthy fats can also lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides and support healthy cholesterol levels—things that are often disrupted in people with insulin resistance.

Beck says that the omega-3s found in fatty fish “have well-documented anti-inflammatory benefits” and are a valuable part of a balanced, healthy diet. Including fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines in a few meals a week aligns with the Mediterranean diet recommendations, which have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic disease and improve metabolic health.

2. Legumes

Legumes—such as beans and lentils—are rich in fiber, plant-based protein and antioxidants that support gut health and reduce inflammation. “Thanks to fiber and polyphenols, beans and lentils earn their title of powerhouse plant proteins,” says Hippley. “They naturally lower inflammation and support sustainable weight loss by improving gut health and fighting oxidative stress.”

Emerging research also suggests that legumes may help the body produce more of its own appetite-regulating hormones, such as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar levels and increases feelings of fullness and satisfaction. This is thanks to its protein and calcium content, which may have a synergistic effect that promotes increased GLP-1 production after eating.

3. Lean Meats

Lean meats—like chicken, turkey, venison and bison—are protein-rich and lower in saturated fat, making them an ideal option for those seeking to reduce inflammation and lose weight. “These lean animal-based proteins all offer different micronutrients that play a role in managing inflammation,” says Beck. 

“Wild game meat, such as venison, elk and bison, tends to be leaner, richer in iron and raised without additives common in conventionally farmed meats,” says Fencl. These meats offer several anti-inflammatory nutrients, including zinc and selenium, which support immune regulation and help neutralize oxidative stress.

4. Tofu & Tempeh

Fermented soy-based proteins, including tofu and tempeh, are rich in complete protein and isoflavones—compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. “These plant proteins come packaged with fiber and phytochemicals that support gut and heart health,” Beck tells EatingWell. These benefits are particularly valuable for reducing markers of inflammation and supporting insulin sensitivity, which can make weight regulation more manageable.

Fermented soy products like tempeh may also support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing digestive inflammation, especially when paired with a fiber-rich diet. Recent research suggests that the health of the gut microbiome may have a significant impact on metabolism and body weight.

Other Tips for Healthy Weight Loss

While eating protein can support metabolism, reduce inflammation and promote weight loss, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. “What often gets missed in typical weight loss advice is that it’s not just one food or one nutrient that determines our health status,” Beck explains. “Eating habits and other behaviors matter just as much, if not more.” Here are some things you can do to support healthy weight loss:

• Eat regularly throughout the day. “Eating regular meals and snacks can help regulate blood sugar and prevent an evening binge or emotional eating cycle that many people struggle with,” says Beck. Eating consistently also supports stable energy levels and helps reduce cravings. 
• Include a variety of whole, nutrient-dense foods. “Research consistently shows that dietary diversity promotes a healthy gut microbiome, supports disease prevention and enhances weight management,” says Fencl. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats as part of your routine.
• Prioritize sleep. “Sleep deprivation has been shown to increase inflammatory molecules like cytokines and C-reactive protein,” says Fencl. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
• Move your body regularly. Regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation and improve mood. Even low-impact movement—like walking and stretching—can help regulate appetite and support sustainable weight loss. Try to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.
• Manage stress. “Managing stress can lower inflammation, control cravings and stabilize blood sugars, making weight loss more achievable,” says Hippley. Try deep breathing, meditation or yoga.

Our Expert Take

There’s no such thing as a magic protein for weight loss, but incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense protein sources into your eating pattern can reduce inflammation and support weight loss. When paired with other healthy habits—like eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep and stress management—you can support long-term health and sustainable results. 

All PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centres located in the Region of the Americas are invited to attend the Second Regional Webinar, titled “Synergies for Universal Health: Leveraging PAHO’s Flagship Initiatives and the Role of PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centres,” taking place on 9–10 September 2025.

The webinar aims to highlight and strengthen the valuable contributions of the CCs to PAHO/WHO’s Flagship Initiatives, while fostering the expansion of networks for knowledge generation and collaboration in areas such as data analysis, evidence generation, research, innovation, digital health solutions, and artificial intelligence.

Objective of the Webinar:

Enhance the engagement of Collaborating Centres in addressing the Region’s most urgent health priorities, within the framework of PAHO’s Flagship Initiatives:

• The Elimination Initiative
• Digital Transformation
• Better Care for NCDs
• Regional Revolving Funds
• Regional Production
• Primary Health Care

 

WHEN

• 9 September 2025 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (EST)
• 10 September 2025 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (EST)

Please check the time in your timezone.

WHOM

• Ongoing PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centres
• PAHO/WHO Personnel

WHERE

Virtual Platform (Zoom)

HOW

• 9 September 2025 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM (EST)

• 10 September 2025 | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (EST)

🔗 Click here to register 

More Information

To explore the full agenda, learn more about the panelists, and participate in the Call for Posters, please visit the webinar page.

🔗 Visit the Webinar Page 

Significant global variation exists in the prevalence of sustained and occasional hypertension among children and adolescents, according to a study published today in JAMA Pediatrics, underscoring the importance of repeated blood pressure measurements to ensure accurate diagnosis.¹

Pediatric hypertension is an emerging public health concern due to its association with subclinical target organ damage and long-term cardiovascular risk.² Prior research found that pediatric hypertension predicts adult hypertension and increases lifetime risk for cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and myocardial infarction.¹

The researchers emphasized the need for global pediatric hypertension prevalence data to guide health resource allocation and prevention efforts. However, they noted that many countries lack monitoring systems, making it difficult to assess the true burden of the condition.

To fill this gap, the researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the global prevalence of hypertension in children and adolescents. They categorized cases as either sustained or occasional hypertension. Sustained hypertension was defined as elevated blood pressure confirmed on 3 or more separate occasions, while occasional hypertension was based on an initial diagnosis determined by blood pressure measurements during a single screening visit.

They searched several databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, from inception through July 7, 2024, for relevant studies. These included original investigations in children and adolescents aged younger than 19 that reported hypertension prevalence among the general population.

Of the 40,143 records searched, the researchers found 271 eligible studies. Among the 3,609,65 children and adolescents included for analysis, 16,328 had sustained hypertension and 538,735 had occasional hypertension.

The global prevalence was 3.89% (95% CI, 3.27%-4.62%) for sustained hypertension and 11.85% (95% CI, 10.98%-12.75%) for occasional hypertension. Rates were significantly higher among children and adolescents with obesity or overweight (16.35% and 6.79%, respectively) than those of normal weight (2.57%).

Additionally, the researchers observed increasing trends over time. Sustained hypertension rose at an annual rate of 7.20% (95% CI, 4.16%-10.32%; P < .001) from 2006 to 2021, while occasional hypertension had an estimated annual percentage change of 0.33% (95% CI, 0.10%-0.56%) between 1987 and 2022.

Lastly, prevalence varied by World Health Organization region and sociodemographic index (SDI) level. Sustained hypertension was most common in the Western Pacific (5.33%; 95% CI, 3.90%-7.25%) and least common in the Americas (2.53%; 95% CI, 1.94%-3.30%), with a statistically significant difference (P = .003). Also, rates were highest in high-middle SDI countries (4.87%; 95% CI, 3.75%-6.29%) and lowest in high SDI countries (2.95%; 95% CI, 2.13%-4.06%), but this difference was not statistically significant (P = .11).

Occasional hypertension was most prevalent in the Western Pacific (13.16%; 95% CI, 11.89%-14.49%) and African (12.35%; 95% CI, 8.80%-16.39%) regions and lowest in the Eastern Mediterranean (9.32%; 95% CI, 7.10%-11.80%), but these regional differences were not significant (P = .08). In contrast, prevalence did vary significantly by SDI level (P = .03), with high-middle SDI countries reporting the highest rates (13.08%; 95% CI, 11.93%-14.29%) and low SDI countries reporting the lowest (9.77%; 95% CI, 7.68%-12.09%).

The researchers acknowledged their study’s limitations, including variability in hypertension diagnostic definitions across studies, which made it challenging to synthesize and compare their findings. Nonetheless, they expressed confidence in their findings and urged continued research and action.

“Future efforts to reduce the burden of hypertension in children and adolescents should focus primarily on primary prevention by promoting healthy lifestyles and avoiding other cardiovascular risk factors, especially overweight and obesity,” the authors concluded. “More population-based studies with robust methodologies and rigorous measurement protocols are warranted to determine the exact prevalence of hypertension among children and adolescents.”

References

1. Ruan X, Zhu A, Wang T, et al. Global prevalence of hypertension in children and adolescents younger than 19 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatr. Published online July 28, 2025. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2025.2206
2. Falkner B, Gidding SS, Baker-Smith CM, et al. Pediatric primary hypertension: an underrecognized condition: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Hypertension. 2023;80(6):e101-e111. doi:10.1161/HYP.0000000000000228

July 28, 2025 – It’s one of the first symptoms when diagnosing depression: “Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed.” 

Psychologists call it anhedonia, from Greek roots meaning “without pleasure.” (It’s the opposite of “hedonism,” the pursuit of pleasure.)

You may not be familiar with the term (unless you’re a big Annie Hall fan – it was the film’s original title), but anhedonia is one of two core features, alongside persistent low mood, in depression’s long list of symptoms. It’s also one of the hardest to treat, and a significant risk factor for battling lifelong depression.

But new research offers encouragement. Scientists are uncovering anhedonia’s little-understood causes, opening doors to new treatments like exploring the meaning of life during therapy or identifying brain biomarkers that predict the most effective medications. 

Though the symptom is notoriously stubborn, really tuning into your anhedonia can set you on a path to overcoming it, experts say – and lessen the chances that depression will recur.

“We see it all the time in our clinics, where patients are significantly struggling with the lack of motivation and the lack of experiencing pleasurable activities that they used to enjoy,” said Majd Al-Soleiti, MD, a resident psychiatrist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and author of a recent anhedonia study review. “So it’s a clinical problem, but also we have gained a lot of knowledge in terms of how it may explain so many problems that we have that go beyond depression.”

Cracking the Mystery of Anhedonia

Anhedonia shows up in a broad range of health conditions, including substance use disorders, eating disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. An estimated 35% of people with epilepsy have anhedonia, plus nearly 20% of people who’ve had strokes, and 25% of those with chronic pain. Among depression patients, up to 70% have anhedonia.

We’ve all learned to tolerate a lack of pleasure in certain situations, like traffic jams and toddler tantrums. Anhedonia is different – it persists, and it’s the result of the brain’s reward processing circuitry malfunctioning.

“People need to take anhedonia very seriously because it can have very negative consequences,” including a heightened risk of suicide, said Diego Pizzagalli, PhD, an anhedonia expert and founding director of the Noel Drury, MD, Institute for Translational Depression Discoveries at the University of California, Irvine.

Neuroimaging has refined the understanding of anhedonia – in particular, that there are two main subtypes: consummatory and anticipatory.

Knowing the type of anhedonia can help identify the most effective treatment.

Before and After: Anticipation and Consumption

Most of us get excited knowing that something good is about to happen – you’re going to eat your favorite meal or go on a trip. This is the anticipatory reward processing effect. When anticipatory anhedonia sets in, the pleasure and excitement aren’t there. Consummatory anhedonia, by contrast, refers to a lack of pleasure during activities or interests that were once enjoyable. 

In both cases, imaging shows that the brain no longer responds as though it is expecting or experiencing a reward.

“When someone is depressed, they will often stop meeting up with friends as often, or they’ll stop doing the hobbies that they usually enjoy because those kinds of things just don’t feel as enjoyable or they don’t feel as interesting as they used to,” said Jennifer N. Bress, PhD, a psychologist at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City who researchers brain activity linked to depression and treatment response. 

Bress’s research shows that people with anhedonia have differences “on a neural level” – meaning the symptom is linked to changes in the way neurons (brain cells) communicate using electrical and chemical signals.

“The brain’s reactivity to rewards also decreases,” said Bress. 

A classic experiment demonstrates this. It’s a guessing game where people being researched can win 50 cents for each correct answer, or lose 25 cents if they’re wrong. 

“People have less electrical activity in their brain in response to winning money when they’re depressed versus when they’re not,” Bress said. And yes, they really give people 50 cents – or take a quarter away. “There’s something about knowing that this is real and that they will actually win something that’s important to getting a robust response.”

What that means outside the lab: When you’re working to overcome anhedonia, it’s important that the rewards you anticipate or experience be real – because your brain responds more strongly when stakes are tangible. 

Treatments That Help

One of the most effective treatments for anhedonia – whether anticipatory or consummatory – is a therapy called “behavioral activation,” said Pizzagalli. 

Behavioral activation takes a step-by-step approach to help patients get back to activities they once enjoyed. This includes scheduling each step leading up to the activity, such as deciding who will join you, and organizing the smallest logistics in advance. Therapists help clients overcome barriers along the way. 

New potential therapy approaches are emerging. One is “positive affect” treatment, where people work to focus more on positive emotions with the added goal of feeling fewer negative emotions. The idea is that increasing positive emotions can heighten reward sensitivity – helping the brain break out of its anhedonic cycles. Other research suggests that therapies focused on identity, purpose, and social connection may help by boosting a person’s “meaning in life,” which may in turn reduce anhedonia.

Here’s the theory behind why these therapies work: With anhedonia, brain connections in reward processing weaken when people disengage from their usual activities and interests.

“You end up in this sort of feedback loop where you become even more depressed and feel even less like doing things,” Bress said, “so you get even fewer opportunities for rewards, which in turn leads to becoming even more depressed.” 

Ultimately, the brain becomes less responsive to rewards.

Behavioral activation gives patients “more opportunities to be exposed to these rewarding outcomes,” she said, which “may help to strengthen some of these connections in the brain that help people respond in a healthy way to rewarding experiences.”

Antidepressants tend not to work as well for anhedonia, particularly for the most severe cases, research shows. Still, there is hope for the future, as researchers develop a more detailed understanding of what is happening in the brain. Pizzagalli’s team is studying brain biomarkers that may help predict which medications will work well for a particular person, laying the groundwork for a personalized approach. But for now, drugmakers have yet to develop a medication to specifically treat anhedonia, he said.

One promising contender is ketamine, which has been shown to rapidly reduce anhedonia and likely impacts the brain’s functional connections. Al-Soleiti’s recent paper also mentioned transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as being notably effective in treating anticipatory anhedonia. 

Also helpful is simply improving diet and lifestyle, since these changes can reduce inflammation and stress, which both are linked to anhedonia, Pizzagalli said. 

Weighing Your Options

While many unanswered questions remain in the science of anhedonia, researchers do know that the two types affect separate areas of the brain. While both anticipatory and consummatory anhedonia have been linked to depression, the association with anticipatory anhedonia has been demonstrated more consistently.

“You could have no problem actually enjoying things that you might like – say you watch a funny video and really enjoy it,” Bress said. “But you may have a lot of trouble with the anticipatory piece or the motivational piece. You might notice it’s really hard to actually get yourself to turn on the video, or it might be that you really enjoy seeing your friends once you go out, but it might be hard to push yourself to actually make that plan and go meet up with them at the coffee shop.”

For therapy approaches, treatment usually involves weekly sessions for anywhere from two to six months. Some of Bress’s clients have shown improvement within just a couple of weeks. Even if past treatments haven’t worked, Pizzagalli urged people not to give up. Most therapists are trained in more than one type of therapy, so if you are considering therapy, ask if they use behavioral activation therapy or another approach specific to anhedonia.

“It’s important for individuals not to lose hope, even if in the moment it seems a burden to look for this help,” Pizzagalli said. “If there is a single message to readers, it is to never suffer alone, and to reach out for help.”

If you or someone you care about is struggling, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is staffed constantly, and help is available by calling or texting 988 or going online to 988lifeline.org.

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Cutting Stack: Preserve Strength While Shedding Fat

Strength doesn’t have to fade during a cutting phase. The CrazyBulk Cutting Stack is formulated for athletes and lifters who want to maintain power and preserve muscle mass while losing body fat. It’s a smart, clean-cut combo featuring Clenbutrol, Testo-Max, Anvarol, and Winsol—each tailored to help users achieve a leaner, harder physique without sacrificing gains.

During calorie deficits, muscle loss can be a major risk. This stack is built to counter that, with Anvarol and Win-Max promoting lean retention and vascular muscle tone, while Clenbutrol ramps up thermogenesis and metabolic speed. Testo-Max, included in all CrazyBulk stacks, keeps testosterone levels optimized, which is essential for strength, mood, and energy while cutting.

What makes this stack stand out is its ability to balance fat loss with performance. Whether you’re prepping for summer, a physique competition, or just dialing in your look, the Cutting Stack ensures you hold onto the muscle you worked hard to build.

Results can typically be seen in as little as 2–4 weeks, especially when paired with a clean diet and resistance training program. Most users report feeling stronger and more defined—without the flat, drained look that often comes with extreme dieting.

If you’re looking to burn fat while keeping your strength intact, the CrazyBulk Cutting Stack offers the definition without the compromise. Available only on the official site, it’s 2025’s top stack for strategic shredding.

Train harder, recover faster—visit the official CrazyBulk site to get the Cutting Stack

Bulking Stack: Power Through Mass Building Phases

When it’s time to bulk, your body needs more than just calories—it needs anabolic support, endurance-enhancing compounds, and hormone balance to grow efficiently. That’s where the CrazyBulk Bulking Stack comes in. Designed for the classic mass-building phase, this four-product powerhouse includes D-BAL, Testo-Max, DecaDuro, and Trenorol—each with a specific role in increasing size, recovery, and workout intensity.

D-BAL leads the charge, mimicking the muscle-building effects of Dianabol, while Deca-Max supports joint function and strength. Tren-Max enhances vascularity and muscle conditioning, and Testo-Max ensures your testosterone remains in the optimal range to support explosive growth.

Unlike dirty bulks that result in excess fat gain, the Bulking Stack is engineered to support lean muscle gains, minimize bloating, and reduce the “bulk crash” once the phase ends. It’s the ideal choice for lifters who want visible gains in size, strength, and gym performance—without compromising definition or well-being.

Used over an 8-week cycle, most users experience noticeable improvements in muscle fullness, power output, and energy. Plus, the clean-label ingredients make this stack suitable for long-term programs.

If you’re planning a growth phase or need to add real size without fluff, the CrazyBulk Bulking Stack delivers results that fuel your offseason goals. It’s the serious stack for serious gains—backed by real lifters across the globe.

Build real muscle mass and Grow Stronger—Visit the official CrazyBulk Bulking Stack today

Ultimate Stack: All-in-One Strength, Size & Definition Solution

If you want everything in one, the CrazyBulk Ultimate Stack is your complete muscle-building and performance system. Featuring six powerhouse supplements—D-BAL, Testo-Max, DecaDuro, Trenorol, Clenbutrol, and Anadrole—this is the most comprehensive stack in the CrazyBulk lineup, built for advanced users who want to push every limit.

Whether you’re bulking, cutting, or recompositioning, this stack offers full-cycle support. D-BAL and Anadrole fuel massive pumps and rapid growth. Clenbutrol and Tren-max help manage body fat while sharpening vascularity. Testo-Max and Deca-max ensure testosterone and joint function stay strong throughout intense training blocks.

The Ultimate Stack is ideal for competitors, transformation challengers, or dedicated gym-goers looking for a total physique overhaul. It helps users build muscle mass, maintain power during cuts, and recover faster between sessions—all while staying 100% legal and natural.

Most athletes report dramatic improvements in strength, muscularity, and workout intensity within the first month. It’s not for casual users—it’s for those committed to the grind and ready for elite results.

If you’re serious about making 2025 your most transformative year yet, the CrazyBulk Ultimate Stack offers the tools, science, and synergy to help you dominate. No needles. No prescriptions. Just clean, compound results—available now on the official CrazyBulk website.

Train harder, recover faster—visit the official CrazyBulk site to get the Ultimate Stack

TREN-MAX – Safest Legal Supplement for Muscle Mass

CrazyBulk’s TREN-MAX is a highly effective supplement that closely emulates the anabolic properties of Trenbolone, a widely utilized steroid for promoting muscle growth and mass. It has been a prominent choice amongst bodybuilders for years.

Working

TREN-MAX is an effective and safe muscle-building supplement that is formulated from 100% natural ingredients. It promotes the development of lean muscle mass while also aiding in the reduction of excess fat for a well-defined physique.

TREN-MAX is a legal dietary supplement by CrazyBulk that is intended to replicate the muscle-building benefits of the potent anabolic steroid Trenbolone Acetate.

TREN-MAX by CrazyBulk is a completely natural supplement that provides significant muscle growth without any chemical stress on the body, unlike Trenbolone Acetate is widely recognized as a highly hazardous anabolic steroid due to its toxicity level. In stark contrast, TREN-MAX is capable of delivering all the benefits of Trenbolone while bypassing the accompanying adverse effects.

Visit CrazyBulk Official Website For TREN-MAX

Ingredients

TREN-MAX’s carefully curated formula generates musculature that is both solid, resilient, and devoid of excess fat.

This is the reason why it is highly sought after by individuals engaged in bodybuilding, as well as others.

It additionally endeavors to enhance the body’s metabolic efficiency while facilitating a substantial reduction in adipose tissue.

This effect is attributed to the presence of beta-sitosterol, a plant-derived sterol with documented ability to facilitate weight loss and promote fat metabolism.

According to clinical research, it has been demonstrated that this product can effectively enhance weight loss outcomes by as much as 6.3% while also reducing body fat levels by up to 3%.

Furthermore, TREN-MAX guarantees enhanced hygiene as an inevitable benefit.

Beta-sitosterol is an active ingredient known for enhancing vascularity in addition to its potential fat-burning and ribbing benefits.

When used in conjunction with Samento Inner Bark, a scientifically validated substance known for its ability to enhance nitric oxide production within the body, the product can produce remarkable results for your physical well-being.

The production of nitric oxide facilitates heightened circulation, resulting in greater delivery of vital oxygen and nutrients to the compromised musculature.

Ultimately, the distinct formula of CrazyBulk’s TREN-MAX is capable of significantly minimizing the buildup of lactic acid in muscular tissues, thereby mitigating muscle soreness and promoting a more efficient post-workout recovery.

• Beta Sitosterol

• Uncaria Tomentosa

• Nettle plant

• Pepsin

Acquire CrazyBulk TREN-MAX at the current market rate.

TREN-MAX can be procured exclusively through the authorized platform of crazybulk.com.

TREN-MAX is priced at USD 64.99 per bottle and provides a 30-day supply to consumers.

Where to Buy CrazyBulk’s Legal Strength Stack Safely

With demand for natural strength training supplements at an all-time high, it’s crucial to know where to buy CrazyBulk products safely and directly—without risking counterfeits, inflated prices, or expired stock. In 2025, the only trusted source for authentic CrazyBulk stacks is the official CrazyBulk website.
Buying directly from the manufacturer guarantees several key benefits. First, you’ll receive genuine, factory-sealed products made in FDA-inspected, cGMP-certified facilities—ensuring purity, consistency, and full ingredient transparency. Second, the site offers exclusive multi-buy deals, fast shipping across the USA, and periodic promotions that aren’t available through third-party retailers or shady online vendors.
Most importantly, ordering from the official site ensures your purchase is covered by CrazyBulk’s risk-free 60-day money-back guarantee. If you don’t see improvements in your strength, stamina, or muscle tone, you can request a full refund—no questions asked. That level of customer protection reflects CrazyBulk’s confidence in the results their products deliver.
Currently, the CrazyBulk Strength Stack—which includes D-BAL, Testo-Max, DecaDuro, and Trenorol—is the most recommended combo for serious lifters. Each stack is designed to work synergistically, helping users build muscle mass, recover faster, and grow stronger across all phases of training.
To avoid imitations or expired knock-offs, fitness experts strongly advise skipping unauthorized eCommerce platforms or overseas suppliers. For guaranteed results and secure checkout, visit the official CrazyBulk website and explore your strength-building options today.

Final Take: The Future of Strength Training Starts Here

Strength training has entered a new era—one that prioritizes clean supplementation, long-term health, and performance without compromise. As lifters move away from synthetic shortcuts and banned substances, the focus is now on sustainable strength, backed by smart science and legal support. At the center of this shift is CrazyBulk, a brand that’s redefining how athletes build muscle mass and keep growing stronger—safely.
The success of CrazyBulk’s strength training supplements isn’t just hype. It’s built on a foundation of formulated synergy, clinically-supported ingredients, and results-driven design. Users aren’t just lifting heavier—they’re seeing faster recovery, enhanced muscle volume, and better hormonal balance, all without the risks typically associated with performance enhancement.
What sets CrazyBulk apart in 2025 is its commitment to natural strength progression. Whether you’re an amateur looking to improve gym performance or a seasoned athlete chasing new personal records, CrazyBulk provides the legal tools to get you there—with no injections, no prescriptions, and no fear of disqualification.
If you’re tired of empty promises and underdosed formulas, it’s time to upgrade your strategy. The future of strength building isn’t found in dangerous cycles or underground labs—it’s found in trusted, transparent supplementation that works with your body, not against it.
CrazyBulk’s Strength Stack is more than a trend—it’s a movement. And for those serious about pushing limits and unlocking peak performance, the time to join that movement is now.

For more information, educational content, and direct purchasing, visit the official Crazybulk website.

Company Name: Crazybulk
244 Madison Avenue,
New York City, NY 10016-2817
Postal code: NY 10016-2817
Media Contact:
Full Name – Neil Bowers
Email: support@crazybulk.com
+1 888-708-6394
Company website: https://www.crazybulk.com
Disclaimer: The statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplements.
Disclosure: All trademarks, registered trademarks, product names, and logos mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners. References to specific products, brands, companies, or organizations are for identification purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement unless explicitly stated. This article may be syndicated or republished by third-party publishers, blogs, or platforms. In such cases, the republishing party assumes full responsibility for maintaining the accuracy and compliance of the published version. The original publisher, its writers, editors, or sponsors shall not be held liable for any misuse, misrepresentation, or misinterpretation of the information contained herein.
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CONTACT: Company Name: Crazybulk 244 Madison Avenue, New York City, NY 10016-2817 Postal code: NY 10016-2817 Media Contact: Full Name – Neil Bowers Email: support@crazybulk.com +1 888-708-6394 Company website: https://www.crazybulk.com

Exposure to harmful chemicals has long been linked to disease, but the specifics surrounding gynecological conditions are largely unknown. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives by Joanna Marroquin, PhD in Public Health, Epidemiology student, is the first to evaluate Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances () in endometrial (uterine) tissue. PFAS are commonly referred to as forever chemicals due to their resistance to breakdown and how long they remain in the environment or human body. 

The study investigates exposure in relation to risk, staging, and subtypes of endometriosis. They found: 

1. PFAS were widely detected in endometrial tissue of women with and without endometriosis. This means there was no association found between PFAS and the overall risk of endometriosis. 

2. However, among those with endometriosis, higher levels of select PFAS were associated with a higher risk for more advanced endometriosis. 

3. Findings additional research on forever chemical exposure in reproductive tissues and its link to disease progression. 

Results can further support scientists studying PFAS and endometriosis, patient advocates, and policymakers working to reduce exposure to harmful environmental chemicals. 

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” are endocrine-disrupting compounds used for their oil and water-repellent properties in a wide range of products. Endometriosis occurs when uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain, abnormal menstruation, and in severe cases, infertility. T the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (R01031079: Investigating Mixtures of Pollutants and Endometriosis in Tissue (IMPLANT) study) and the Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health (contract numbers: NO1-DK-63428, NO1-DK-6-3427, and 10001406-02). 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Eutopic Endometrium Tissue and Risk of Endometriosis: Findings from the Investigating Mixtures of Pollutants and Endometriosis in Tissue (IMPLANT) Study was published in Environmental Health Perspectives in April 2025. It is the college’s first R01-funded project.  

Professor Anna Pollack and Associate Professor Jenna Krall in the Department of Global and Community Health served as contributing authors. 

About the authors 

Joanna Marroquin is a PhD student in Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology in the Department of Global and Community Health. Her research focuses on women’s health across the life course, examining how environmental chemical exposures affect gynecologic conditions. She is especially interested in the role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in shaping health outcomes and addressing disparities in exposure. Prior to pursuing her PhD, Joanna worked as a diagnostic medical sonographer, where her experiences in clinical care inspired her to contribute to research that improves health equity for women throughout their lives. 

Jenna Krall is an associate professor in the Department of Global and Community Health. Krall is a biostatistician with research interests in air pollution and environmental epidemiology. Her work has been focused on developing methods for estimating sources of air pollution and their associations with health. She is also interested in statistical computing (R, SAS, Stata) and collaborative work related to chemical mixtures, spatial statistics, and missing data. 

Anna Pollack’s research focuses on the relationship between environmental chemical exposures and fertility, pregnancy, and gynecologic health. Pollack was trained in reproductive and environmental epidemiology and epidemiologic methods. She investigates biological mechanisms underlying these processes, such as biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption. Pollack’s research is based in and addresses disparities in exposure, which stem from environmental and occupational sources. She seeks to apply methods to examine complex mixtures to better understand their impact on women’s reproductive health. 

At least 60% of liver cancers could be preventable, according to an analysis published Monday in The Lancet.

Liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world, with around 870,000 cases in 2022. That’s projected to increase to 1.52 million cases in 2050, the new report found, if no changes are made.

The leading cause of liver cancer is viral infections, including the hepatitis B and C viruses. Hepatitis B infections — which are preventable with a vaccine — accounted for 39% of liver cancers in 2022. That’s expected to fall slightly, to 36.9%, by 2025. Hepatitis C accounted for 29.1% of liver cancers in 2022 and is also projected to fall, to 25.9%, by 2050.

The proportions of alcohol- and obesity-related liver cancers, however, are projected to rise in the next 25 years. Alcohol accounted for 18.8% of liver cancers in 2022, and that is expected to increase to 21.1% in 2050. The share of liver cancers caused by obesity-related disease is projected to increase from 8% to 10.8% by 2050 due to increasing rates of obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol and other metabolic risk factors.

Dr. Hashem El-Serag, one of the report’s co-authors and chair of the department of medicine at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, said the public usually thinks of alcohol as the biggest risk factor for liver cancer.

“I think for most people, if you say cirrhosis, they immediately think of a relative, of someone who was a heavy drinker,” El-Serag said. “I think the vast majority do not make the tie between MASLD, or fatty liver, and cirrhosis and liver cancer.”

MASLD, or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, affects about 25% of adults in the U.S. It’s caused by a buildup of fat in the liver. About 5% of U.S. adults have a more severe form, called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which can lead to scarring, or cirrhosis, of the liver, significantly increasing the risk of cancer.

Excess alcohol consumption can also lead to cirrhosis.

Liver cancer is still relatively rare in the United States, representing 2.1% of all new cancer diagnoses in 2025. The report estimated that by 2040, U.S. rates of MASLD could more than double, affecting more than 55% of adults.

Detecting liver cancer risk factors

Earlier detection and effective treatment plans for MASLD can reduce the risk of obesity-related liver cancer, El-Serag said. The most common treatment is weight loss. GLP-1 weight loss drugs, which include Ozempic and Wegovy, are promising, he said. (A clinical trial published in April found that Wegovy treated MASH in about two-thirds of patients.)

However, people aren’t screened for MASLD like they are for viral hepatitis, El-Serag said.

Dr. Arun Jesudian, a hepatologist and the director of liver quality and inpatient liver services at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, said patients are tested for MASLD and/or MASH if they have elevated liver enzymes in their blood.

Raising awareness about MASLD among both patients and doctors can lead to more effective testing and diagnosis, Jesudian said.

“I think then we need to make sure that providers who are interacting with these patients are looking at the liver disease component of metabolic syndrome,” he said, referring to patients with a cluster of conditions including high blood sugar, high blood pressure and excess weight. “So checking liver enzymes, that they know how to assess for fibrosis, even based on these blood test scores.”

MASLD and MASH can often be asymptomatic, making self-detection more challenging.

“Right now, it’s haphazard. Some people get tested. Others get suspected. Third, who knows?” El-Serag said.

Dr. Neehar Parikh, a hepatologist at the University of Michigan who specializes in liver cancer, said he is seeing more patients with MASLD as a driving factor for liver cancer.

Patients with MASLD can develop liver cancer without developing cirrhosis, making it even more challenging to detect those cases, Parikh said. Up to 40% of those with liver cancers linked to MASLD don’t develop cirrhosis, according to the report.

Figuring out who those patients are is the “million-dollar question,” he said. “Those patients that develop MASLD that develop liver cancer, you know, how do you screen that population? We don’t really know what to do.”

Still, Parikh said these types of cases are rare.

Ultimately, Jesudian said, “treating these liver diseases early is the best way to prevent liver cancer, because liver cancer almost always occurs in the setting of chronic liver disease.”