Health
Your sweat could hold secrets about your health, researchers say — here’s how
New technology could make it significantly easier to monitor patients’ vital health signs.
Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed an electronic finger wrap that monitors important chemical levels — such as glucose, vitamins and even drugs — using only human sweat, the university stated in a news release.
The wearable innovation is said to be as easy as wearing an adhesive bandage.
The research was published on Sept. 3 in the journal Nature Electronics.
SEPSIS A TOP KILLER BEHIND HEART DISEASE, CANCER IN US: WHAT TO KNOW, HOW TO AVOID THE CONDITION
“This is the first demonstration of a complete zero-electric powered sweat (extraction and sensing) platform that enables non-invasive monitoring of multiple biomarkers to support a wide range of practical scenarios in personalized health care monitoring and wellness management,” Dr. Joseph Wang, PhD, a professor in the Aiiso Yufeng Li Family Department of Chemical and Nano Engineering at UC San Diego, told Fox News Digital in an email.
New technology from the University of California San Diego, pictured here, could make it significantly easier to monitor patients’ vital health signs. (Shichao Ding)
The wearable apparatus wraps snugly around the finger and draws its power from the fingertip’s sweat, according to the researchers.
“Fingertips, despite their small size, are among the body’s most prolific sweat producers, each packed with over 1,000 sweat glands,” the news release stated.
The device is constructed from electronic components and printed on a thin, flexible and stretchable polymer material.
MAJOR HEALTH ORGANIZATION MAKES STARTLING HEART DISEASE PREDICTION: ‘NEAR-PERFECT STORM’
It conforms to the finger and is “durable enough to withstand repeated bending, stretching and movement,” the researchers stated.
Added Wang, “It is based on a remarkable integration of energy harvesting and storage components, with multiple biosensors in a fluidic microchannel, along with the corresponding electronic controller, all at the fingertip.”
Health at your fingertips — literally
In the study trials, the finger wrap showed to be effective, according to the research team.
“The fingertip-wearable microgrid works automatically after it is worn on the finger,” study co-first author Shichao Ding, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher in Wang’s research group at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering, told Fox News Digital via email.
The wearable apparatus wraps snugly around the finger and draws its power from the fingertip’s sweat, according to the researchers. (iStock)
Participants wore the device on the fingertip while performing daily activities such as working at a desk, walking, eating and sleeping to assess “the real-time performance of the sensors and energy-harvesting system.”
Biomarker levels can be automatically monitored from the sweat for on-demand health tracking, Ding added.
Fingertip glands can produce 100 to 1,000 times more sweat than most other areas of the body, even during rest, according to the researchers.
“Fingertips are among the body’s most prolific sweat producers, each packed with over 1,000 sweat glands.”
“This constant trickle of natural perspiration — without any stimuli or physical activity — offers a reliable energy source, fueling the device even during periods of inactivity or sleep,” they stated.
Ding added, “Autonomous power, sensing and treatment all in one device — that’s the ultimate goal.”
Next steps
Looking ahead, the researchers plan to enhance the device’s performance with additional energy-harvesting techniques.
Those might involve generating mechanical energy from human motion, such as common finger movements like tapping or typing, Ding said.
“In the case of diabetes, such a device could continuously monitor glucose levels, automatically deliver insulin as needed, and then assess the treatment’s effectiveness by further monitoring biomarker levels,” a researcher said. (iStock)
The researchers are working to optimize the circuit design, battery, low-power sensing modules and data transmission to improve the device’s lifespan, stability and functionality, the researcher said, which will help to ensure a sustained balance between energy generation and consumption.
“Researchers are working to develop a closed-loop system that not only monitors biomarkers, but also administers treatments based on the collected data,” Ding told Fox News Digital.
“For instance, in the case of diabetes, such a device could continuously monitor glucose levels, automatically deliver insulin as needed, and then assess the treatment’s effectiveness by further monitoring biomarker levels.”
A ‘pioneering’ innovation
Seokheun “Sean” Choi, PhD, a professor in the electrical and computer engineering department at Binghamton University in New York, was not involved in the device’s development but commented on its potential.
Wearable technology has made significant strides, noted Choi, who specializes in developing biosensing and bioenergy technologies, including self-powered biosensors and other solutions for personalized health monitoring.
The finger-wrap is “revolutionary” in terms of simple power generation and health monitoring, a doctor confirmed. (iStock)
“However, achieving true energy independence — where devices are standalone and always-on — remains a major challenge,” he told Fox News Digital.
Current wearables rely on batteries or other energy storage devices, noted Choi, which pose limitations “due to their bulk and limited energy capacity.”
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
The finger-wrap is “revolutionary” in terms of simple power generation and health monitoring, he confirmed.
“To realize the next generation of wearable applications, power autonomy is essential, allowing devices to operate continuously, independently and self-sustainably,” Choi said.
“Autonomous power, sensing and treatment all in one device — that’s the ultimate goal.”
“Professor Wang’s group has pioneered the integration of a sweat-driven electrochemical fuel cell with an energy storage battery, achieving sustainable high performance by using fingertip perspiration to generate meaningful power,” he went on.
“This is revolutionary because sweat was non-invasively and practically harvested from the fingertip in a simple, straightforward manner,” an expert said. (iStock)
“This is revolutionary because sweat was non-invasively and practically harvested from the fingertip in a simple, straightforward manner.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
In addition to monitoring metabolic functions, Choi said, this solution also has the potential to be used for a wide range of medical applications.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Parents are being warned of a new trend among kids, involving alcohol and an open flame.
The “fire-breathing” challenge has led to reports of severe burns, according to local news outlets.
Kids and teens are reportedly holding alcohol in their mouths and blowing it onto a match or another open flame to mimic “breathing fire.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES
According to Philadelphia’s 6ABC News (WPVI), a teen in Pitcairn, Pennsylvania, was intubated and treated for burns to the face, neck and chest after attempting the trend.
A “fire-breathing” challenge is leaving kids with severe burns, according to local reports. (iStock)
“Luckily, in this particular case, it did not burn the building down,” Al Hussey, Wilmerding Borough fire marshal, told WPVI.
“But somebody really got hurt, and, you know, is going to have life-altering injuries.”
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Pitcairn Fire Chief Tommy Dick told CBS News Pittsburgh (KDKA) the 14-year-old girl was playing with isopropyl alcohol at an apartment complex.
“It’s not a very smart thing for anybody to do, let alone children,” Dick said. “It’s supposed to be for cleaning off wounds and cuts and stuff, not ingesting and trying to blow fire.
A local fire chief told CBS News Pittsburgh that the incident could have been fatal for the teen. (iStock)
“This could have easily gone inside their digestive tract, and she could have died.”
Anyone who has ingested isopropyl alcohol requires immediate medical attention, according to Healthline, because it can cause stomach pain, dizziness, confusion and slowed breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to a coma.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Fire experts are urging parents to closely monitor which household products are within their children’s reach.
Ingesting isopropyl alcohol requires immediate medical attention, according to experts. (iStock)
“If they’re doing their hair with chemicals, if they’re taking isopropyl alcohol in the room or any type of fingernail polish remover,” Hussey said. “Obviously, monitor your lighters and your matches and educate your children.”
Multiple cases of children’s injuries have occurred in recent weeks after being allegedly “inspired” by online stunts, WPVI reported. One trend involved microwaving a toy that burst and left severe burns on a 9-year-old’s face.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Valerian, an herbal supplement long used for sleep and relaxation, has been referred to as “nature’s Valium” — but experts are divided on whether it truly compares to the prescription sedative.
The herb, which is sold as a dietary supplement in the U.S., is a common ingredient in products marketed as “mild sedatives” and sleep aids, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Valium, the brand name for diazepam, is used to treat anxiety, seizures and muscle spasms by calming the nervous system, Cleveland Clinic notes.
Valerian supplements are derived from the roots of Valeriana officinalis, a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia that has also naturalized in northeastern America, according to the American Botanical Council (ABC).
The plant has a “long history of medicinal use,” per the ABC, with the primary goal of reducing anxiety and stress as well as improving sleep quality. It has historically also been used for migraines, fatigue and stomach cramps.
Valerian has historically been used for migraines, fatigue and stomach cramps. (iStock)
Dried valerian roots can be prepared as teas or tinctures, while other plant materials and extracts have been distributed as capsules or tablets, per the NIH.
The agency noted, however, that there is a “relatively small amount of research” investigating the herb’s impact on various conditions.
POPULAR SLEEP POSITIONS COULD BE DAMAGING YOUR NERVES, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS
However, Stefan Gafner, Ph.D., chief science officer of the American Botanical Council in Texas, confirmed that some clinical trials have explored valerian root’s effects.
A 2020 medical review published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine found that both powdered root and root extracts show a “clear” benefit in treating anxiety, Gafner told Fox News Digital.
Valerian root and other parts of the plant can be prepared as teas, extracts, capsules and tablets. (iStock)
The researchers concluded that valerian could be a “safe and effective herb to promote sleep and prevent associated disorders.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES
While valerian may have some benefits, Gafner said he doesn’t think it “makes sense” to compare it to diazepam (Valium).
“I can understand that both are used to relieve anxiety, but valerian is a much milder ingredient, and is really used for mild cases of anxiety and sleep issues,” he told Fox News Digital.
Some valerian users have reported improved sleep and reduced anxiety, according to recent research. (iStock)
Unlike valerian, diazepam carries a risk of dependence and is generally prescribed short-term, the expert said, and the spectrum of potential adverse effects is “very different.”
MISSING SLEEP MAY TAKE A HIDDEN TOLL ON YOUR BRAIN AND LONGEVITY, RESEARCH REVEALS
Gafner said he “absolutely” recommends the use of valerian root to relieve anxiety and stress and to improve sleep.
“I have used it myself and I believe it’s an ingredient with well-documented benefits, especially for people with problems falling asleep,” he said. “It is well-tolerated and very safe… although some sources caution [against] driving a car or using heavy machinery when using valerian.”
Valeriana officinalis, a herbal plant used as a mild sedative, in bloom. (iStock)
Dr. Joseph Mercola, a board-certified family medicine osteopathic physician and author of the new book “Weight Loss Cure,” said valerian’s comparisons to Valium may “exaggerate what the science actually shows.”
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
“Valerian root contains compounds that appear to enhance calming brain chemicals, particularly the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps quiet nerve activity and supports relaxation,” the Florida-based expert told Fox News Digital.
“Some studies do report modest improvements in sleep quality or shorter time to fall asleep, while others find no meaningful difference compared with placebo.”
Valerian supplementation may not be right for everyone seeking better sleep, one doctor said. (iStock)
Side effects may include headaches, dizziness, digestive upset or next-day grogginess, Mercola noted, adding that he would not recommend it as a primary strategy for anxiety, stress or sleep.
“Because long-term safety studies remain limited, and supplement quality varies widely, you should approach valerian with caution rather than view it as a universal sleep solution,” he advised.
“You should approach valerian with caution rather than view it as a universal sleep solution.”
“I encourage people to focus first on strategies that correct the underlying drivers of poor sleep,” Mercola advised. “When you fix those foundations, you often find that you no longer need an herbal sedative at all.”
“I encourage people to focus first on strategies that correct the underlying drivers of poor sleep,” one doctor advised. (iStock)
“Bright sunlight during the day helps regulate your circadian rhythm and signals your brain to produce melatonin later at night,” he said. “At the same time, complete darkness [at night] supports the hormonal signals that allow deep, restorative sleep.”
Certain nutrients can also promote relaxation and sleep quality, including magnesium, which helps to regulate the nervous system, according to the doctor.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
GABA may help to calm nerve activity, reduce stress markers and improve perceived sleep quality, Mercola said, while glycine — taken at about 3 grams an hour before bed — may support relaxation, promote the body’s nighttime temperature drop, and improve sleep onset and overall quality.
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
“When you combine sunlight exposure, magnesium, GABA and glycine, you support the biological systems that control sleep instead of relying on a sedating herb with mixed evidence,” the doctor concluded.
Fox News Digital reached out to valerian root manufacturers requesting comment.
Related Article
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy have transformed treatment for Type 2 diabetes and obesity, but new research suggests doctors may need to pay closer attention to bone health, especially in older patients taking the drugs.
Older adults with Type 2 diabetes who started GLP-1s had an 11% higher risk of fragility fractures compared to those taking other diabetes medications, a study published in February in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found.
Dr. Michal Kasher Meron, an endocrinologist at Meir Medical Center in Israel and lead author of the study, said the relative increase may sound small, but it carries weight for an at-risk population.
“Both older age and Type 2 diabetes are independent risk factors for fragility fractures,” Kasher Meron told Fox News Digital. “This is a population that deserves special attention.”
A new study suggests older adults with Type 2 diabetes taking GLP-1 medications may face increased fracture risk. (iStock)
Fragility fractures are breaks from minor falls or routine activity, often linked to osteoporosis, and can lead to hospitalization, loss of independence and even increased mortality in older adults, Kasher Meron noted.
The study followed more than 46,000 adults 65 and older for nearly three years. After adjustments, GLP-1 users had a modest but statistically significant increase in fracture risk.
NEW WEGOVY PILL OFFERS NEEDLE-FREE WEIGHT LOSS — BUT MAY NOT WORK FOR EVERYONE
Previous research in younger patients using older GLP-1s did not show increased fracture risk, but newer, more potent versions are now widely prescribed to older adults, Kasher Meron noted.
“In older adults treated with contemporary medications, the fracture risk picture looks different and warrants close attention,” she said.
Separate research found slightly higher rates of osteoporosis and gout among adults using GLP-1s. (iStock)
The study, however, was observational, meaning it shows an association but not causation. Researchers were unable to determine whether the risk was driven by weight loss, changes in diet, muscle loss or a direct effect on bone.
TEA PROTECTS, COFFEE DESTROYS? NEW STUDY REVEALS STARK BONE-DENSITY DIVIDE FOR OLDER WOMEN
Nonetheless, Kasher Meron says, “Bone health should be assessed before starting these medications in older patients — not as an afterthought.”
The findings come as separate research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ annual meeting this month raised additional bone health concerns.
In an analysis of more than 146,000 adults with obesity and Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 users were found to have a 29% higher relative risk of osteoporosis over five years compared to nonusers, according to reports.
STUDY REVEALS HOW RAPIDLY WEIGHT COMES BACK AFTER QUITTING OBESITY MEDICATIONS
Rates of gout were also slightly higher, affecting 7.4% of GLP-1 users compared to 6.6% of nonusers — about a 12% relative increase.
Experts recommend bone density screening for older adults taking GLP-1 medications. (iStock)
Osteomalacia, a softening of the bones, was rare but occurred about twice as often in GLP-1 users, according to the study, which has not yet been peer reviewed. It was also observational, showing only an association. Fox News Digital has reached out to the researcher for comment.
Several mechanisms could be at play, experts say. GLP-1 medications suppress appetite and can lead to rapid weight loss. Significant weight loss is known to reduce bone density, partly because less mechanical load is placed on the skeleton.
“It’s the same idea as when we always hear about astronauts going up into space, and they’re in a gravity-zero environment for too long,” lead author Dr. John Horneff, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Pennsylvania, told NBC News.
“There’s nothing forcing their bones to kind of hold their weight anymore. And a lot of those astronauts come back with low bone density.”
Additionally, eating fewer calories may also mean lower intake of calcium, vitamin D and protein, nutrients critical for bone strength.
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are widely used to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity. (iStock)
Rapid weight loss can also temporarily increase uric acid levels, a byproduct of tissue breakdown, which may explain the uptick in gout cases.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES
Despite the findings, experts say the results should not discourage appropriate use of GLP-1 medications, which have proven benefits for blood sugar control, weight loss and cardiovascular risk reduction.
In addition to bone density screening, experts say patients should ensure adequate nutrition and resistance training to help preserve muscle and bone during weight loss.
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
A spokesperson for Novo Nordisk, which manufactures GLP-1 medications, said the company prioritizes patient safety, works closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and welcomes independent research into its products.
Experts also recommend proper nutrition and resistance training to help preserve muscle and bone health during weight loss. (iStock)
The known risks and benefits of the drugs are reflected in the current FDA-approved labeling, Liz Skrbkova, head of U.S. media relations for Novo Nordisk, told Fox News Digital. She emphasized that semaglutide has demonstrated cardiovascular, kidney and liver benefits when used under medical supervision.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
“Osteoporosis is a complex condition that develops over many years as a result of interdependent risk factors,” Skrbkova added.
Fox News Digital’s Melissa Rudy contributed reporting.
Related Article
Outraged over incentives for data centers that are no good for Colorado (Letters)
Man charged with murder in Hartford
Spike in utility bills after cold snap forces Delaware customers to make tough choices
Our leaders look to the past, but it's not a pretty picture
How should cities use AI? This Atlanta suburb may hold the answer.
Florida High School Football Rankings: Top 25 teams – Oct. 21
How old is Bo Nix? What to know about Oregon quarterback ahead of 2024 NFL Draft
Cleary's 21 help Le Moyne down Central Connecticut State 69-64 in OT
99th annual Pony Swim held in Virginia
Indiana Members Credit Union announced as new anchor tenant at Bottleworks District
Video: Airports Struggle to Staff T.S.A. During Partial Government Shutdown
Before-and-after satellite imagery offers a rare look at damage inside Iran
Hungary's opposition leader Péter Magyar calls on Russia to refrain from election interference
Video appears to show U.S. cruise missile striking Iranian school compound
Trump vows block on signing new laws until SAVE America Act passes Senate
-
Wisconsin1 week agoSetting sail on iceboats across a frozen lake in Wisconsin
-
Massachusetts6 days agoMassachusetts man awaits word from family in Iran after attacks
-
Maryland1 week agoAM showers Sunday in Maryland
-
Florida1 week agoFlorida man rescued after being stuck in shoulder-deep mud for days
-
Pennsylvania4 days agoPa. man found guilty of raping teen girl who he took to Mexico
-
Oregon1 week ago2026 OSAA Oregon Wrestling State Championship Results And Brackets – FloWrestling
-
News1 week ago2 Survivors Describe the Terror and Tragedy of the Tahoe Avalanche
-
Sports4 days agoKeith Olbermann under fire for calling Lou Holtz a ‘scumbag’ after legendary coach’s death