Influence of the Onset of Menopause on the Risk of Developing Alzheimer's Disease.

Menopause is a natural phase marked by the permanent cessation of menstrual cycles, occurring when the production of reproductive hormones from the ovaries stops for at least 12 consecutive months. Studies have suggested a potential connection between menopause and a heightened risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD), underscoring the significant role of reduced estrogen levels in the development of AD. Estrogen plays a crucial role in brain metabolism, influencing energy metabolism, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive functions. The cognitive benefits associated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are believed to be linked to estrogen's neuroprotective effects, either through direct action on the brain or indirectly by improving cardiovascular health. Extensive literature supports the positive impact of estrogen on brain cells. While the physiological effects of estrogen on the brain have not been consistently replicated in clinical trials, further research is crucial to provide more definitive recommendations to menopausal patients regarding the influence of HRT on AD. This review aims to comprehensively explore the interplay between menopause and AD, as well as the potential of HRT to mitigate cognitive decline in post-menopausal individuals.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Cardiovascular Disease: An Integrative Review With a Focus on the Gut Microbiome.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Recent research indicates a significant link between IBD and cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. This review examines the association between IBD and CVD, emphasizing the role of the gut microbiome in this relationship. IBD patients have a higher risk of cardiovascular events, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and cerebrovascular incidents, primarily due to chronic systemic inflammation, genetic factors, and gut microbiota imbalance (dysbiosis). Dysbiosis in IBD increases intestinal permeability, allowing bacterial products to enter the bloodstream, which promotes inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, contributing to CVD. Understanding the gut microbiome's role in IBD and CVD suggests new therapeutic interventions. Modulating the microbiome through diet, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) are promising research avenues. These interventions aim to restore a healthy gut microbiota balance, potentially reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular outcomes. Additionally, the review emphasizes the importance of regular cardiovascular risk assessments and personalized preventive measures in managing IBD patients. Such measures include routine monitoring of cardiovascular health, tailored lifestyle modifications, and early intervention strategies to mitigate cardiovascular risk. By integrating current knowledge, this review aims to improve understanding and management of the interconnected pathophysiology of IBD and CVD. This approach will ultimately enhance patient outcomes and provide a foundation for future research and clinical practice guidelines in this area.