Health headlines: March 2025

The latest in medical and wellness news you need to know.

Author

Umayya Theba
March 30, 2025

High‑dose vitamin D significantly reduces disease activity in early multiple sclerosis onset, clinical trial finds

Researchers from CHU Nîmes, Université Montpellier, and multiple MS centres in France have found that oral cholecalciferol in doses of 100,000 IU every two weeks significantly reduced disease activity in clinically isolated syndrome and early relapsing‑remitting multiple sclerosis, making it an inexpensive, well‑tolerated option, especially where access to standard disease-modifying therapies is limited.

Healthy eating in midlife linked to overall healthy ageing

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in plant-based foods, with low to moderate intake of healthy animal-based foods and lower intake of ultra-processed foods, was linked to a higher likelihood of healthy ageing—defined as reaching age 70 free of major chronic diseases and with cognitive, physical, and mental health maintained, according to a new study by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, and University of Montreal. The study is among the first to examine multiple dietary patterns in midlife in relation to overall healthy ageing.

Maternal diet influences ADHD and autism risk

A large study analysing over 60,000 mother-child pairs found that a Western diet during pregnancy—high in fat, sugar, and processed foods—was associated with a significantly increased risk of ADHD and autism in children. Even small shifts toward a Western diet correlated with a 66% higher risk of ADHD and a 122% higher risk of autism.

Keto diet may stabilise mood in young people with bipolar

Researchers are launching a multi-site pilot study to assess whether a ketogenic diet, alongside standard medications, can stabilise mood symptoms in young people with bipolar disorder. The 16-week trial will involve 40 participants aged 12-21, who will follow a ketogenic diet while their mood symptoms, metabolic markers, and adherence to the diet are monitored.

Previous research has shown mood and cognitive improvements in adults with bipolar disorder, but this is the first study focused on younger populations.

Debunking myths: The nutritional power of red meat

For generations, red meat has been at the heart of South African culture, from Sunday braais to hearty family meals. Yet, in recent years, it has come under fire, with claims that it’s harmful to health, unethical, and bad for the environment.

A study by Canada Beef found that consuming more than three and a half servings of red meat per week does not increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, blood pressure, or other cardiovascular risk factors.