OMH CAPSULE: Llama Antibodies Can Protect Against All COVID Variants

Only My Health brings you a quick round-up of all the latest health news that you need to know. In this episode let's look into-  Nanobodies found in the blood of llamas may offer protection against COVID-19 and all of its variants, including the omicron variant, a new study found. Menopausal women may have higher levels of a brain biomarker that are linked to an increased risk of stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and cognitive decline. A new study revealed a possible connection between drinking whole milk and an increased risk of cognitive decline.

'Nanobodies' From Llama Blood Could Soon Protect Against COVID

According to a recent Mount Sinai study, tiny immune particles derived from llama blood can provide strong protection against every COVID-19 variant, including Omicron, and 18 similar viruses, including viruses responsible for the 2003 SARS outbreak.

Llamas, camels, and alpacas have unique immune systems in comparison to the rest of the animal kingdom: they produce antibodies that are roughly one-tenth the size of normal antibodies. They are extremely stable and can bind to disease targets firmly.

The researchers state in a paper published in Cell Reports that these "super-immunity" molecules, known as nanobodies, can be used globally against the evolving pandemic and future viruses.

Because of their superior stability, low production costs, and ability to protect both the upper and lower respiratory tracts from infection, they could serve as an important therapeutic to supplement vaccines and antibody drugs if and when a new COVID-19 variant is discovered.

While more research is required, researchers believe that ultrapotent nanobodies can be used to benefit humanity.

Women Have More Brain Changes After Menopause: Study

Menopausal women may have higher levels of a brain biomarker known as white matter hyperintensities than premenopausal women or men of the same age, according to a recent study published in the journal 'Neurology.'

White matter hyperintensities are brain lesions. They become more common as people get older or have uncontrolled high blood pressure.

The researchers discovered that the increase in brain biomarkers accelerated with age and was faster in women than men.

According to the study, postmenopausal women had more white matter hyperintensities than premenopausal women of comparable age.

While having white matter hyperintensities does not guarantee that a person will develop dementia or have a stroke, having more of them may increase the risk.

The study's findings highlight the significance of sex-specific medicine and more attentive therapy for older women, particularly those with vascular risk factors.

Milk Is Linked To Cognitive Decline: Study

A study published in the journal Molecular Nutrition Food Research found a link between drinking whole milk and an increased risk of cognitive decline.

This study was conducted in Spain and included approximately 4600 obese participants with an average age of 65.

Participants were asked about their dairy consumption, which included milk, yoghurt, and cheese.

There were no negative effects on cognitive performance after consuming low-fat milk, yoghurt, cheese, or fermented dairy on a regular basis, according to the findings.

Over a two-year period, however, higher consumption of whole milk was associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline.

But what is the reason for this? According to the scientists. Too much saturated fat consumption from milk products leads to mild cognitive impairment later in life. It also causes cholesterol buildup in your arteries, which increases your risk of heart disease and has a negative impact on brain health.

The good news is that you do not have to stop drinking milk completely. Instead of whole milk, choose low-fat dairy milk alternatives. Nondairy alternatives such as soya, oats, or almond milk are also options.