Health
Finasteride: Unexpected Heart Health Benefits Unveiled in Study
Finasteride, a drug widely recognized under the brand names Propecia and Proscar, has been a go-to treatment for male pattern baldness and enlarged prostate for countless men. However, recent research has unveiled some unexpected benefits of this medication.
A study conducted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has linked this “miracle drug” to cholesterol-lowering effects and a decrease in heart disease risk. The research, published in the Journal of Lipid Research, revealed that men who used the drug had, on average, 30 points lower cholesterol levels than those who did not.
This data was originally gathered as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2009 and 2016. Further research involving mice showed that the use of the drug for 12 weeks, in conjunction with a high-fat, high-cholesterol “Western” diet, resulted in reduced cholesterol, slower plaque buildup in the arteries, and decreased liver inflammation, among other benefits.
“The most surprising finding was the human data,” said Jaume Amengual, lead study author and assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and the Division of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois. “When we observed the association with finasteride and plasma lipids, we decided to do our mouse study.”
Finasteride works as a hair loss treatment by blocking a protein found in hair follicles. When treating an enlarged prostate, the drug inhibits the prostate gland that activates testosterone. Given that atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by cholesterol plaque buildup in the arteries, is most prevalent among men and has been linked to the male hormone testosterone, the researchers were prompted to investigate whether the medication could also reduce heart disease risk.
Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, who was not involved in the study, explained the implications of finasteride. “It stops testosterone from turning into dihydrotestosterone and thereby stops hair loss and also shrinks the prostate by 25%,” he said. However, he cautioned that side effects can include depression, anxiety, and impotence.
Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurologist and longevity expert, also not involved in the study, provided his insights on the drug. “Finasteride in normal dosages — 1 to 5 mg daily, depending upon the indication — has intolerable side effects in many,” he said. “It can also strip a man of his energy, virility, libido, and motivation.”
The study did have some limitations, the researchers noted. Out of nearly 4,800 total participants, only 155 were finasteride users, all of whom were men over 50. The survey also did not determine the duration or amount of the doses. “We also did not examine the effects of finasteride in women or female mice,” Amengual said. “However, this drug is not prescribed for women, as it could be dangerous during pregnancy.”
Despite these limitations, the researchers are optimistic about the potential of finasteride in combating cardiovascular diseases. “There is still so much to discover on how finasteride works in our body,” Amengual noted. “But based on our findings, this drug could be another tool in the fight against cardiovascular diseases.”
In response to the drug being found to lower cholesterol and decrease heart disease risk, Siegel also called for more research. “Much larger studies are needed in humans to confirm these findings before you would ever consider using this drug for cardioprevention,” he said. “It may end up being useful for this purpose in the elderly, who are at higher risk of heart attacks and strokes, as an add-on statin therapy.”
Osborn also pointed out that the study was performed retrospectively, meaning there was no control group, and random effects unknown to the researchers could have influenced the results. “That said, the authors’ observations are interesting and demand further investigation,” Osborn stated. “After all, lipid-lowering agents are one of the mainstays of cardiovascular risk reduction — and most Americans die vascular deaths.”
Osborn cautioned that this study does not mean every male should start taking finasteride. Instead, he recommends regular exercise, increasing daily fiber intake to 25 grams, and taking high doses of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce cardiovascular risk. “For now, skip the finasteride as a lipid-lowering agent,” he advised. “As it stands now, the juice isn’t worth the squeeze.”
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During the peak summer months, most healthy individuals can produce all the vitamin D they need by exposing the skin on their face, arms, and legs to sunshine for just a few minutes each day. Experts recommend seeking out sunlight during the middle of the day—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.—when the sun is highest in the sky and the UVB rays are strongest.
However, as summer winds down into autumn and winter—especially in locations farther from the equator—UVB rays tend to be weaker and therefore less impactful. As a result, you may be more vulnerable to developing a vitamin D deficiency, a condition that can affect your bone health, trigger a calcium imbalance in your blood, and cause muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, respiratory problems, and more.
Brynna Connor, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician specializing in anti-aging and regenerative medicine and the Healthcare Ambassador for NorthWestPharmacy.com, says vitamin D deficiency can have far-reaching effects on health. In severe cases, it can cause osteoporosis in adults or rickets in children.
“Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium more efficiently,” Connor says, noting that only 15 to 20 percent of the calcium you ingest through eating and drinking is absorbed by the body.
“When vitamin D becomes activated, it forms the hormone calcitriol that interacts with cells in the kidneys and intestines, triggering the organs to absorb more calcium.”
Since your natural absorption will vary depending on the sun’s intensity, you can plan your intake depending on the season. Endocrinologist John Bilezikian, MD, wrote on behalf of Columbia University Irving Medical Center that if you live in New York, for example, you should assume that the sun will provide “minimal or no vitamin D” between the months of October and April, regardless of how much time you spend outdoors.
“This is when supplements are vital,” he says.
Between May and September, Bilezikian says that getting between 15 to 20 minutes of sun exposure per day is enough. If you’re planning to be in the sun for longer stretches of time, it’s important to apply a high-SPF sunscreen to minimize your risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
The experts add that seniors over the age of 70 may need more time in direct sunlight since our skin becomes less efficient in producing vitamin D over time.
“Older adults who suffer from a vitamin D deficiency may also be more prone to falls, which, coupled with decreased calcium levels and weaker bones, can lead to increased incidents of fractures or breaks,” Connor warns.
Eating a diet that’s rich in vitamin D, including foods such as fatty or oily fish, egg yolks, mushrooms, and milk and dairy products, can also help to safely raise your levels. However, seeking out safe sun exposure and taking a daily vitamin D supplement are still considered the most effective ways to increase your vitamin D stores. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), most adults should aim to get 15 micrograms (mcg) or 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D. People in their 70’s or older should get 20 mcg/800 IU to protect against osteoporosis.
Of course, if you suspect you may have a vitamin D deficiency, your medical provider can confirm this with a blood test and help you determine the best solution for your unique medical circumstances.
“As with any supplement, you should talk to your doctor before starting a new course of treatment to ensure there is no risk of adverse events,” Connor advises.
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Every year, Americans invest around $13 billion in natural supplements, seeking their reputed health benefits. While these herbal supplements promise solutions for various ailments, recent research raises concerns about their safety, particularly regarding liver health. Here, we delve into six popular supplements that may pose risks to your liver.
Turmeric
Turmeric is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties and is often used to alleviate joint pain and improve digestion. However, studies indicate it may also be hepatotoxic. According to Dr. Alisa Likhitsup, “Potentially hepatotoxic botanical products are the products that contain plant-based ingredients which have been implicated as potential causes of liver damage.”
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is popular for its antioxidant benefits and weight loss properties. Yet, its concentrated form can be harmful. The study highlights that “chemical analyses of HDS products associated with confirmed liver toxic effects show frequent discrepancies between product labels and detected ingredients.”
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is known for its stress-relief and energy-boosting benefits. Despite its popularity, it has been flagged for potential liver toxicity. Dr. Likhitsup notes, “How these products cause liver damage is not yet known but it is likely due to metabolism that occurs in the liver after the products were consumed.”
Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice is commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. However, it may also pose risks to liver health. The lack of regulation for these supplements is concerning. “A new HDS product doesn’t need FDA approval before hitting shelves,” the study points out, which researchers claim is problematic.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is often used to manage menopausal symptoms but has been linked to liver toxicity. The study’s findings underscore the need for caution. “As a practicing hepatologist, I have seen patients who had liver injury from taking dietary supplements and some were fatal which required emergency liver transplant,” shares Dr. Likhitsup.
Kava
Kava is used for its calming effects and to reduce anxiety. Despite its soothing reputation, it has been implicated in liver damage cases. The study emphasizes that these supplements “aren’t regulated by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),” allowing companies to market them without stringent oversight.
The research underscores the importance of being cautious with herbal supplements. While they are marketed as natural and safe, they can carry significant risks, particularly to liver health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your regimen.
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Green tea has been celebrated for centuries, not just for its delicate flavor but also for its numerous health benefits. With its rich antioxidant content and natural compounds, green tea can have a profound impact on your body. Let’s explore some of the remarkable changes that occur when you incorporate green tea into your daily routine.
Boosts Metabolism
One of the most well-known benefits of green tea is its ability to enhance your metabolism. The catechins found in green tea can help to increase your body’s metabolic rate, making it easier to burn calories.
According to experts, “Green tea can help you burn an extra 70 to 100 calories per day.”
Improves Brain Function
Green tea doesn’t just wake you up; it can also make you smarter. The caffeine and L-theanine in green tea work together to improve brain function.
Studies have shown that “The combination of caffeine and L-theanine has synergistic effects that improve brain function.”
Reduces Risk of Cancer
Green tea is packed with powerful antioxidants that can help protect against cancer. The polyphenols in green tea have been shown to reduce the growth of tumors and prevent the spread of cancer cells.
“Antioxidants in green tea may lower the risk of various types of cancer,” researchers note.
Supports Heart Health
Drinking green tea regularly can also benefit your heart. The antioxidants in green tea can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and improve blood flow, reducing the risk of heart disease.
“Green tea drinkers have up to a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular disease,” studies suggest.
Aids in Weight Loss
For those looking to shed a few pounds, green tea can be a helpful ally. The combination of caffeine and catechins in green tea can assist in weight loss efforts by increasing fat burning and improving physical performance.
“Green tea can help you lose weight, especially harmful abdominal fat,” according to health experts.
Enhances Skin Health
Green tea’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can also do wonders for your skin. It helps to reduce redness, fight acne, and improve overall skin texture.
“Green tea can improve your skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles,” dermatologists say.
Strengthens Immunity
Drinking green tea can give your immune system a significant boost. The antioxidants and vitamins in green tea help to strengthen your body’s defenses against infections.
“Green tea can enhance your immune function,” experts confirm.
Promotes Longevity
With all these health benefits, it’s no surprise that green tea can contribute to a longer life. Regular consumption of green tea has been linked to increased longevity and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
“People who drink green tea are likely to live longer,” researchers conclude.
Drinking green tea can bring about a host of positive changes in your body, from boosting your metabolism and brain function to protecting your heart and skin. By incorporating this powerful beverage into your daily routine, you can enjoy these health benefits and more. So, why not start today? Your body will thank you.
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