Diet Shifts: New Food Guidelines Stir Debate

The government recently unveiled a revised food guide, turning the old pyramid on its head. This time, the top spot goes to meat and dairy, signaling a shift towards more protein. But not everyone is on board. Some experts praise the change, while others, like Marion Nestle, criticize it as confusing and contradictory. Adding fuel to the fire, nearly half of the committee behind the guidelines have connections to the beef and dairy industries. This raises eyebrows about potential biases. Meanwhile, weight loss drugs like GLP-1s are making headlines. They've been called miracle workers for helping people lose weight and improve heart health. But what happens when users stop taking them? A recent study shows that weight regain speeds up four times faster than those who quit dieting and exercising. Moreover, the positive effects on blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure disappear too. Hormone therapy for menopause is also gaining attention. It's being marketed as a way to combat wrinkles and brain fog. However, this isn't new. Similar claims were made in the 1970s and 80s, and experts urge caution.On the vaccine front, there's controversy brewing. Health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his allies want to remove liability protections for vaccine makers. This could have big implications, potentially limiting vaccine access. But legal experts aren't convinced it's a done deal. In some good news, this year's flu shot might offer some protection against a new influenza strain. A study found that vaccinated people developed antibodies against a subclade of H3N2, even though the vaccine doesn't target it specifically. It's not perfect, but it's a start. Lastly, psychedelic retreats are becoming popular. With the rise of shrooms and ayahuasca, these retreats are everywhere. But how safe are they? A recent study found a lot of variability in safety measures. Some have trained professionals on site, while others don't. It's a mixed bag, and something to consider if you're thinking about going.