Ask Mongevity
Questions from our readers about living longer and better, answered with the latest studies we cover. Each answer is updated when new evidence comes in.
Ask a questionBrain
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How can I overcome loneliness?New this month
It depends. Feeling lonely is not the same as being alone, so it helps to notice which one fits you. Our sources did not test cures for loneliness.…
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Can exercise lower my risk of dementia?New this month
It depends. In large studies, people with the highest fitness had about half the dementia risk of the least fit. But those studies watched people over time and…
Skin
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Is eczema contagious?New this month
No. The National Institutes of Health says atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is not contagious, so it cannot be spread from person to person. Genes,…
Sleep
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How much sleep do older adults need?New this month
It depends, but there is a guide. The CDC lists 7–8 hours a day for adults 65 and older. Quality counts too: sleep that is uninterrupted and leaves…
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Are naps good for you?New this month
It depends. In one study of older adults, people who napped more had a slower decline in money and health know-how. But that study shows a link, not…
Pets
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Is dog dental cleaning necessary?New this month
It depends. Our notes did not test cleanings against no cleanings, so we can't say every dog needs one. They do show that caring for your dog's gums…
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Can cat arthritis be treated?New this month
Yes. In two trials, treatments helped many cats with arthritis. A shot given every three months did better than a placebo in a large trial. Donor cell infusions…
Lifestyle
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Do I really need 10,000 steps a day?New this month
We don't know yet. Our notes don't cover step counts, so we can't name a magic daily number. The CDC says adults need at least 150 minutes of…
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Do supplements actually work?New this month
It depends. In our two stories, fish oil and vitamin D supplements helped in specific situations: high LDL cholesterol alongside a heart-healthy diet, or very low vitamin D.…
Metabolism
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Is Ozempic the same as GLP-1?New this month
No, not exactly. GLP-1 is a gut hormone, and "GLP-1 drugs" are a family of medicines built around it. Ozempic is a brand name. Semaglutide is the medicine…
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Can fatty liver be reversed?New this month
It depends. Official guidance says weight loss can reduce fat in the liver, and may reduce inflammation and scarring too. Activity helps even without weight loss. We don't…
Aging
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How many medications is too many?New this month
It depends. Our notes do not give a magic number. What matters is why each medicine was started and whether one was added to treat a side effect…
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How can I live longer?New this month
It depends. No single habit is proven to add years. But moving your body, staying connected with people and eating more plants are all linked to more years…
Muscle & Bone
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How can I prevent falls as I get older?New this month
Yes, falls can often be prevented. Exercise that builds strength and balance is the best-supported step. A US task force recommends it for adults 65 and older at…
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Can muscle loss be reversed?New this month
It depends. In trials, older adults who added strength work to Tai Chi improved muscle function and movement. Muscle size did not show a steady gain, though. So…
Kidney
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How can I slow kidney disease?New this month
It depends. Controlling blood pressure is the top step, and blood sugar matters if you have diabetes. Regular kidney tests show where you stand. Some specific diseases, like…
Cancer
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Does cancer fatigue ever go away?New this month
It depends. For many people, cancer fatigue eases once treatment ends. The National Cancer Institute says some people still feel it for months or years. It is not…