A pioneering new study revealed that there are rare immune cells found in centenarians that may contribute to maintaining their longevity by eliminating cancer cells before they grow.
According to the British newspaper The Independent, these specialized immune cells were known for their ability to kill some cancer cells. The new study, conducted by researchers at Osaka University in Japan, shows that it also plays a role in healthy aging in centenarians.
The researchers say these cells are called CD4 CTL cells, which are a hallmark of super centenarians who live for more than 110 years.
In the study, researchers analyzed blood samples from 28 adults, who were divided into three age groups: 70-99 years, 100-109 years, and 110 years and older. They found that the percentage of CD4 CTL cells is higher in people over one hundred years old, especially those over one hundred and ten years old.
“CD4 CTL cells are an atypical and relatively rare group of T cells,” said Kosuke Hashimoto, one of the study’s participants. Therefore, its noticeable increase in people over one hundred and ten years may provide important clues about how to maintain the immune system at a very advanced age.”
He pointed out that, when the immune system is exposed to a constant attack or threat, these cells can copy themselves and reproduce in large numbers, a process known as clonal expansion.
Despite the striking results, researchers warn against interpreting them as evidence that these cells prevent cancer or make people live longer.
They pointed out that if future studies confirm these results and precisely determine the targets that these cells attack; It may pave the way in the future for new methods to combat age-related cancer.
Hibiscus is a popular herbal beverage. It is characterized by its dark red color and refreshing taste. It also contains a group of plant compounds and antioxidants that have been linked to potential health benefits.
Studies indicate that consuming it regularly may support cardiovascular health, as it acts as a natural diuretic and may help relax blood vessels. Among its potential benefits, especially its ability to help lower blood pressure.
Hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure naturally, although it is not a substitute for medications. Studies indicate that taking it daily may contribute to lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
One study found that drinking two cups of hibiscus tea regularly may help lower blood pressure over time, while research generally indicates an average decrease in systolic blood pressure, that is, the top number in a blood pressure reading, by about 5 to 7 mm Hg.
Hibiscus may contribute to lowering blood pressure in several ways, most notably its richness in antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and protect the lining of blood vessels from damage.
Hibiscus also acts as a natural diuretic, which helps the body get rid of excess fluids, which may contribute to lowering blood pressure.
Research also suggests that it may inhibit the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which leads to narrowing of blood vessels. Inhibiting this enzyme may help relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
When is it preferable to drink hibiscus?
There is no specific time to drink hibiscus tea, and since it is caffeine-free, it can be drunk at any time of the day without affecting sleep. Some studies indicate that it has properties that help with relaxation, which may make taking it an hour or two before bedtime a suitable option.
Other research indicates that drinking two to three cups a day may help lower blood pressure.
Eating hibiscus after meals may also be beneficial, as some studies indicate that it may improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Risks and warnings
Hibiscus tea is generally safe for most healthy adults, but it may not be suitable for everyone, and caution or avoidance is advised in some cases.
Hibiscus may increase some liver enzymes in people with liver disease. Those who take medications to treat high blood pressure should also be careful, as its hypotensive effect may cause it to drop excessively.
It is also recommended to avoid hibiscus during pregnancy, due to the possible increased risk of miscarriage, and during breastfeeding, due to its possible negative effect on the infant. There is not yet sufficient scientific evidence to confirm its safety in children and adolescents.
Kidney stones often begin when the urine becomes highly concentrated with certain minerals and salts, allowing the formation of small crystals that gradually collect and turn into stones that may cause severe pain when they move into the urinary tract. While factors such as family history and certain health conditions play a role in increasing the risk of infection, some daily habits can also contribute to its formation.
What habits may increase the risk of kidney stones, and how can this risk be reduced?
1. Lack of drinking water
Not getting enough fluids is one of the most prominent factors that may increase the risk of kidney stones. When the amount of water in the body decreases, urine becomes more concentrated, which facilitates the accumulation of minerals and salts and the formation of crystals.
Therefore, keeping the body well hydrated helps reduce the concentration of substances that can collect to form stones. The amount of fluids each person needs varies depending on the weather, physical activity, and health condition.
2. Too much salt
Eating large amounts of sodium can increase the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys in the urine, which may increase the likelihood of some types of kidney stones forming.
Reducing highly salty foods, such as ready meals, processed and packaged foods, and some fast food, is a useful step to maintain kidney health and reduce risk factors.
3. Excessive animal protein
Excessive intake of red meat and some animal protein sources may lead to changes in urine chemistry, including increased uric acid and a reduction of certain substances that help prevent crystal formation.
This does not mean that it is necessary to avoid animal protein, but rather it is better for the diet to be balanced, with diversification of protein sources and the introduction of more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes according to the person’s nutritional needs.
4. Delaying urination for long periods
Retaining urine for long periods is not one of the most prominent proven causes of kidney stones in itself, but ignoring the need to urinate constantly may not be a healthy habit for the urinary tract.
The most important thing in preventing stones is maintaining good hydration and producing a sufficient amount of urine, in addition to treating the nutritional and medical factors that increase the risk of their formation.
What happens inside the kidneys?
The kidneys contain urine that carries various substances, including calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. When concentrations of some of these substances rise beyond the ability of urine to keep them dissolved, crystals can begin to form.
As conditions continue to encourage crystallization, these crystals may grow and aggregate to form a stone. The type of stone depends on the materials of which it is composed; Calcium stones are the most common, along with uric acid stones and other types.
How to reduce the risk of kidney stones?
Some simple steps can help reduce the risk of infection, especially in people who are more susceptible to stone formation:
- Drink sufficient amounts of water and fluids throughout the day.
- Limit your intake of salt and foods rich in sodium.
- Avoid excessive intake of red meat and animal protein.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits.
- Do not ignore symptoms or delay medical evaluation when kidney stones recur.
Nutritional advice varies depending on the type of stone and the reason for its formation, so people who have previously had recurring stones may need a medical evaluation and analysis of the type of stone or urine to determine the best methods of prevention.
When do kidney stones need medical care?
Stones may cause severe pain in the side of the back or lower abdomen, and may be accompanied by blood in the urine, nausea and vomiting, or pain during urination. If fever or chills appear along with symptoms of kidney stones, difficulty urinating, or severe and persistent pain, medical care should be sought quickly, because urinary tract obstruction accompanied by infection may be an emergency.
Prevention does not only mean drinking water, but rather depends on understanding the cause of stone formation, its type, and the habits that may increase the risk of their return.
