This Week in Health: From COVID’s Hidden Heart Damage to Everyday Chemicals in Your Kitchen

1. COVID May Age Women’s Hearts by 5 Years

A new international study has revealed something worrying: COVID-19 can cause lasting heart and blood vessel damage in women.

Even women who only had mild infections showed changes in their arteries that made them appear up to five years older than they actually are. This stiffening of the arteries makes it harder for blood to flow smoothly and raises the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes later in life.

Researchers found that women were more affected than men. The good news: vaccinated women showed less damage, suggesting vaccines may offer extra protection for the heart beyond preventing severe COVID.

Doctors say that women who continue to feel unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort long after their infection should not ignore these symptoms. Getting a heart check-up could prevent more serious problems in the future.

2. Toxic Chemicals 10x Higher Near U.S. Air Base

A new report shows that people living and working near a U.S. Air Force base in New Mexico have blood levels of PFAS chemicals up to ten times higher than normal.

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals”, don’t break down in the environment and can build up in the body over time. They are linked to cancer, kidney and liver damage, hormone disruption, and a weaker immune system.

The contamination likely comes from firefighting foam used for decades on military sites. The chemicals seeped into the soil and groundwater, where local communities still get their drinking water.

Now, families and workers are raising concerns, and the Air Force faces lawsuits over the pollution. Experts stress that exposure to such high levels poses a serious long-term health risk, especially for children and pregnant women.

The case is a stark reminder of how hidden chemicals in our environment can quietly affect entire communities for years.

3. The 5 Foods That Keep You Healthy — and Save the Planet

A new global study looked at 30 different food groups and asked two big questions: Which foods are best for our bodies? And which are best for the environment?

The winners were clear: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.

These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which protect against heart disease, diabetes, and digestive problems. At the same time, they have a much lower environmental footprint than foods like red meat or processed products. Growing plants requires less land, water, and energy, and they produce fewer greenhouse gases.

4. Chemicals in Your Kitchen Could Raise Diabetes Risk by 31%

A new study found that “forever chemicals” (PFAS), which are used in everyday items like nonstick pans, plastic food containers, and kitchen utensils, may raise the risk of type 2 diabetes by 31%.

These chemicals don’t break down in the body or environment, which is why they’re called forever chemicals. Researchers believe they can interfere with insulin regulation, the hormone that controls blood sugar. Over time, this disruption can make it harder for the body to keep blood sugar levels stable, increasing the risk of diabetes.

Experts recommend making small, practical swaps to limit exposure:

• Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic for food storage.

• Cook with cast iron or stainless steel pans instead of nonstick cookware.

• Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers.

5. Everyday Chemicals Linked to Miscarriage Risk

A new study shows that “forever chemicals” (PFAS) — found in nonstick pans, food packaging, carpets, and even some cosmetics — may raise the risk of repeated miscarriages.

PFAS build up in the body and can disrupt hormones and fertility. Women with higher PFAS levels in their blood were more likely to experience miscarriages.

Doctors suggest simple ways to reduce exposure:

• Use water filters that remove PFAS

• Store food in glass or steel instead of plastic

• Choose PFAS-free cookware and cosmetics

Stay healthy and enjoy your life