New science blames “brain goo” for weight gain!

Scientists are starting to uncover how GLP-1 weight loss medications may positively affect the brain + body to aid other conditions. So this week, we look at their latest, motivating body + food + exercise connections. Then, close with fall allergy + virus news to know.

Your Checkup: 

• Cheap sunglasses can cost your long-term health 
• Can booze prevent food poisoning? The research
• How proper lateral band walks can prevent pain
• A study on 3,600 packaging chemicals in humans!
• What to do (+ avoid) before your next flu shot
• GI docs do 5 things daily for optimum gut health
• Here’s when/why wearing makeup may help acne
• When you need to stretch + when it’s ok to skip it

Primary Care

GLP-1s for illness?

Studies are looking at how GLP-1s may improve some chronic conditions.

One found Semaglutide reduced stroke, heart attack + death risk by 20% for patients with cardiovascular disease—no matter their BMI or how much weight they lost. GLP-1s are showing neuroprotective effects against dementia and helping patients reduce alcohol, nicotine + drug use.

Experts think how GLP-1s reduce inflammation, alter proteins, change cell communication, dampen reward systems + alter nerve communication may be at play. Listen to this Guardian podcast for more.

And for a weight loss program with science-backed support, meet Shed It, our holistic prescription weight loss program!

Exercise for better fat

A study out of Michigan of people with similar BMI + belly fat found differences between those who exercised + those who didn't.

The exercisers’ belly fat contained more beneficial protein + vessels—so it was healthier. The tissue was less rigid, with less inflammation. And it could expand + store fat better, so the fat didn't need to travel to the liver, heart or other organs. No matter your belly size, Dr. B may be able to help you save on exercise costs while you prevent or treat a chronic condition.

Learn how to unlock your HSA/FSA for fitness online with Dr. B!

Got a craving? Blame brain goo.

A study published in Nature revealed an area of the brain that senses insulin levels + controls hunger can break down within weeks of eating a high-fat/high-sugar diet. It then creates a goo that traps hunger neurons, so insulin can’t reach the brain + signal satiation.

Researchers found an enzyme that “digests” the goo + and a molecule that stops it from forming—both could lead to possible treatments for increased hunger + weight gain.

Until then, Dr. B offers GLP-1 medications + science-backed support in our new holistic prescription weight loss program. Explore Shed It!

Healthcare 911

4 reasons why your allergies are so bad right now, and how to get relief ASAP (Well+Good). Autumn pollen flies around more on drier, windy days, and opening windows to cooler weather can bring pollen inside. Wetter springs + longer warm seasons (thanks, climate change) mean moldier, more humid hours. Read the article for allergy-reducing tips. Or get prescription allergy treatment online with a seamless consultation. Get online allergy care.

US FDA approves AstraZeneca's self-administered nasal spray flu vaccine (Reuters). FluMist, the first nasal spray vaccine of its kind, will soon be available via online pharmacies to adults who complete screening and eligibility assessments. Stay tuned for details on cost and access. And if you get the flu this season, Dr. B can help you get same-day antiviral treatment online with a consultation—on weekends and holidays, too! Learn about online flu care.

New Covid variant XEC now in half of states (CBS). XEC is the least dramatic new variant. While rising in Germany, it doesn’t appear more transmissible than KP.3.1.1, which dominates stateside. The new Covid-19 boosters protect against KP.2 + are effective against spinoffs. So get boosted before the fall holidays. If you’re at high risk for severe infection, Dr. B offers same-day Paxlovid online—7 days a week! Get online Covid care.