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These diseases can be revealed through your eyes

4. June, 2026

Your eyes can reveal more than just vision problems.

According to eye specialists, changes in vision or the appearance of the eyes can sometimes be signs of other diseases or health conditions elsewhere in the body.

Here are some conditions, according to Prevention, that can affect the eyes in different ways.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve and lead to blind spots in the field of vision.

Some people also experience halos around lights, blurred vision, pain in the eye or forehead, and red eyes.

If left untreated, the condition can result in severe vision loss.

Cataracts

With cataracts, the eye’s lens gradually becomes cloudy.

This can cause vision to appear hazy or blurred, and colors may seem less vivid.

Many people also experience increased sensitivity to glare and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

Macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is a common cause of vision loss among older adults.

The condition affects the central area of the retina, which can make faces and objects appear distorted.

Straight lines may look wavy, while peripheral vision often remains unaffected.

High cholesterol

In some cases, high cholesterol can lead to temporary vision disturbances. Vision may briefly disappear and then return.

Fatty deposits may also develop around the eyes, and grayish rings can form around the cornea.

Thyroid problems

If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, the muscles around the eyes may swell.

This can cause the eyes to appear more prominent than usual. Some people may also experience double vision.

Graves’ disease

The autoimmune condition Graves’ disease can cause the eyelids to retract, making the eyes appear larger.

If the eyelids cannot close completely, it can lead to dry and irritated eyes.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause the central area of the retina to swell or accumulate fluid. This can lead to vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.

People with diabetes are also at increased risk of both glaucoma and cataracts.

Retinal migraine

Retinal migraine can present as temporary blind spots, flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or floating lines in the field of vision.

The symptoms typically occur in only one eye and often last for a short period.

Myasthenia gravis

The autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis can weaken the muscles around the eyes.

This can make it difficult to keep the eyelids open and may also cause double vision.

Lupus

Lupus can lead to uveitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the eye.

Symptoms may include blurred vision, pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.

Multiple sclerosis

Vision changes can be an early sign of multiple sclerosis.

Reduced vision in one eye, pain during eye movement, faded color perception, or double vision may be among the symptoms.

Stroke

A sudden loss of vision can be a sign of a stroke.

Vision loss may affect one eye, part of the visual field, or both eyes. The condition can also cause double vision and problems with eye movement.

Source: Prevention.

GLP-1 drugs linked to 30 percent lower risk of dying from breast cancer

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. June, 2026

GLP-1 drugs linked to 30 percent lower risk of dying from breast cancer

GLP-1 drugs were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but today they are also widely used for weight loss because of their effects on appetite and blood sugar levels.

Researchers are now taking a closer look at whether these medications may also affect cancer.

One reason for this interest is that obesity can increase the risk of breast cancer, particularly after menopause, according to The Guardian.

Questions remain

At the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) cancer conference in Chicago, researchers presented three studies examining the relationship between GLP-1 drugs and cancer.

The researchers stressed that the findings do not prove that the medications directly protect against cancer.

It remains unclear whether the observed effects are due to weight loss, reduced inflammation in the body, or other factors.

New findings

The first study included 110,000 women. It found that women taking GLP-1 medications had a 30% lower risk of developing breast cancer compared with women who were not taking the drugs.

A second study involving 27,000 breast cancer patients found a 30% lower risk of dying from the disease when the medication was used alongside standard treatment.

A third study involving 12,000 patients showed that people with breast, lung, colorectal, or liver cancer had a 38% to 50% lower risk of their disease progressing to stage four.

Sources: The Guardian and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

Watermelon may offer more than just refreshment, studies suggest

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. June, 2026

Watermelon may offer more than just refreshment, studies suggest

For many people, watermelon is a staple of summer, but the fruit is more than just refreshing.

A study published in Nutrients (1) indicates that it may also offer health benefits.

Research cited by Healthline shows that people who eat watermelon often consume higher amounts of several important nutrients through their diet.

These include dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A and C.

More than just water

Watermelon consists of approximately 91 percent water, making it a good source of hydration, especially on hot days.

At the same time, it contains compounds such as lycopene and other carotenoids, which are known for their role in a healthy and varied diet.

According to researchers, watermelon may therefore contribute to better overall diet quality in both children and adults.

Several health benefits

According to Healthline, watermelon has also been linked to lower insulin resistance, reduced muscle soreness, and improved digestion.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams of watermelon contains only 30 calories and virtually no fat.

May benefit heart health

Researchers point out that watermelon contains the amino acid L-citrulline, which may have a positive effect on blood vessels and blood pressure.

A 2025 research review published in Nutrients (2), along with a 2022 study also published in Nutrients (3), suggests that the compound may help lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function.

Researchers therefore believe that watermelon may help support heart health and potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease when included as part of a healthy diet.

Sources: Healthline, Nutrients (1), USDA, Nutrients (2), and Nutrients (3).

Medication could reduce the need for knee replacements in osteoarthritis patients

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. June, 2026

Medication could reduce the need for knee replacements in osteoarthritis patients

According to The Guardian, knee osteoarthritis affects millions of people worldwide.

The condition can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, and many patients ultimately require knee replacement surgery.

According to The Guardian, excess weight is one of the most important factors contributing to the progression of the disease, as it places greater stress on the knee joints.

Millions of patients studied

Researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine examined health data from 6.8 million adults with knee osteoarthritis between 2010 and 2024.

They compared patients who had received GLP-1 medications with similar patients who had not received the treatment.

The participants were followed for up to eight years after their diagnosis.

Fewer surgeries

Previous studies have shown that weight-loss medications can reduce pain in people with osteoarthritis.

The new research, published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, investigated whether the medications could also affect the need for surgery.

The results showed that patients who had taken drugs such as semaglutide or tirzepatide for several years had a lower risk of eventually undergoing knee replacement surgery.

The researchers believe the treatment could potentially lead to fewer knee surgeries each year.

At the same time, experts emphasize that the study does not prove that the medications directly prevent surgery. The drugs are also not approved as a treatment for osteoarthritis.

Sources: The Guardian and Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine.

Experts warn against using this type of kitchen paper with food

Mie Hermansen

4. June, 2026

Experts warn against using this type of kitchen paper with food

Many people rarely think twice about the kitchen paper sitting next to the stove. It is used to soak up grease, dry vegetables and help with everyday cooking.

But a new consumer investigation suggests that one common type of kitchen paper may come with a hidden drawback that few shoppers are aware of, reports Tv4.se.

According to testing carried out by Swedish consumer magazine Råd & Rön, and supported by guidance from the Swedish Food Agency, some kitchen paper products made from recycled fibres may transfer unwanted chemicals into food. The findings have raised concerns among food safety experts and consumer advocates alike.

Chemicals detected

Researchers examined 16 different kitchen paper brands, evaluating everything from absorbency and durability to hygiene and chemical content.

The results showed that all products made entirely from recycled fibres contained bisphenols, a group of chemicals that previous studies have linked to potential effects on reproductive health and the immune system.

Some products were also found to contain optical brighteners, substances commonly used to make paper appear whiter.

Food contact risk

Because bisphenols are fat-soluble, experts say they can more easily migrate into fatty foods when direct contact occurs. This is one reason why food safety authorities have long advised consumers to be cautious when using recycled paper products during food preparation.

To better understand the potential risk, researchers conducted additional tests using bacon. They found that chemical transfer increased significantly when the paper was heated in a microwave. Lower levels were detected after normal frying, but traces of the substances still moved from the paper into the food.

What consumers should check

Experts say packaging does not always clearly indicate when a product is unsuitable for food contact. Instead, shoppers are encouraged to look for the glass-and-fork symbol, which signifies that the product has been approved for use with food.

The findings highlight how an everyday kitchen item can play a larger role in food safety than many consumers realize.

How blueberries can affect your cholesterol if you eat it regularly

Mie Hermansen

4. June, 2026

How blueberries can affect your cholesterol if you eat it regularly

If you’re looking to improve your cholesterol levels, small dietary changes can make a difference. Experts say that replacing sugary snacks with blueberries may help support both cholesterol management and overall heart health, reports Parade.

Added sugar can affect cholesterol

Foods high in added sugar can raise LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while lowering levels of HDL, often referred to as “good” cholesterol.

Excess sugar is stored as fat in the liver

A high intake of sugar can lead to increased fat storage in the liver, where it is converted into triglycerides and released into the bloodstream.

High triglycerides may harm blood vessels

Elevated triglyceride levels can contribute to the hardening of arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Sugary foods can increase inflammation

Experts say that foods rich in sugar may promote inflammation in the body, which can negatively affect cardiovascular health.

Fruit sugar differs from added sugar

Although fruit contains sugar, natural sugars are different from the added sugars commonly found in ultra processed foods.

Blueberries are a healthier sweet option

According to the experts, blueberries can be a satisfying alternative to pastries, candy, and other sugary snacks.

Research links blueberries to healthier cholesterol levels

Scientific studies have found an association between blueberry consumption and lower LDL cholesterol as well as higher HDL cholesterol.

Fiber helps slow sugar absorption

Blueberries contain fiber, which can slow the absorption of sugar and help prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels.

Blueberries contain less sugar than many fruits

The dietitian notes that blueberries have a relatively low sugar content compared with several other fruits.

Soluble fiber supports heart health

The soluble fiber found in blueberries plays a role in cholesterol management while also supporting cardiovascular health.

Anthocyanin gives blueberries their color

Anthocyanin is the compound responsible for the blue and purple shades seen in blueberries and many other fruits and vegetables.

One cup a day is recommended

The dietitian recommends eating about one cup of blueberries daily, whether on their own or added to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal.

People who talk to themselves may have an unexpected advantage

Mie Hermansen

4. June, 2026

People who talk to themselves may have an unexpected advantage

Most people have caught themselves speaking out loud while looking for their keys, planning their day, or working through a problem. While some still view the habit as unusual, scientific research suggests there may be real benefits behind these private conversations.

According to research by Gary Lupyan of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, talking to yourself can help improve concentration, motivation, and task performance. Experts increasingly describe self-talk as a valuable mental tool rather than a sign of eccentric behavior, reports WP kobieta.

A smarter way to focus

In one of Lupyan’s studies, participants were asked to find specific objects. Those who said the name of the object aloud located it more quickly than those who searched silently.

Researchers believe that speaking a word helps the brain maintain a stronger mental image, making it easier to focus attention and ignore distractions.

Benefits beyond productivity

Psychologists say self-talk can help people organize their thoughts and manage complex tasks more effectively. It is a technique often seen among athletes, executives, and other high performers.

Some of the reported benefits include:

Improved concentration
Greater motivation
Better planning
Fewer mistakes during tasks

By verbalizing thoughts, people may find it easier to structure actions and stay on track.

A boost for confidence

Experts also suggest that positive self-talk can strengthen self-belief. Encouraging yourself verbally may help reduce stress and make challenges feel more manageable.

Speaking goals or plans out loud can also increase commitment to completing them. When the brain both thinks and hears a message, it often becomes easier to stay focused and follow through.

Source: WP kobieta

This writing exercise may reveal signs of cognitive decline

News

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. June, 2026

This writing exercise may reveal signs of cognitive decline

We do not use only our hands when writing. The brain is also involved in processing information, remembering words, and controlling movements.

For this reason, changes in the way we write may provide insights into the state of the brain, according to SciTechDaily.

Researchers from the University of Évora in Portugal examined this possibility in a new study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.

Testing older adults

The study included 58 people aged between 62 and 92 who were living in nursing homes. Of these, 38 had already been diagnosed with some form of cognitive impairment.

Participants completed various writing tasks on a digital tablet using a pen. Some were asked to draw lines and dots, while others were instructed to write sentences.

However, the researchers found no clear differences between the groups when the tasks involved only simple movements or copying text.

Dictation

The most significant differences emerged in tasks where participants were required to write from dictation.

This type of task requires the brain to listen, understand language, retain information, and control hand movements at the same time.

In these exercises, individuals with cognitive impairment took longer to begin writing and generally wrote more slowly.

The researchers therefore believe that digital dictation tasks could become a simple and inexpensive tool for detecting or monitoring the progression of cognitive decline.

However, they emphasize that larger studies are needed before the method can be used in routine healthcare.

Sources: SciTechDaily and Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.

Brenda was told her cancer could not be treated – now her tumor has shrunk by 80 percent

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. June, 2026

Brenda was told her cancer could not be treated – now her tumor has shrunk by 80 percent

Brenda Iveson was diagnosed in 2025 with a six-centimeter tumor in her liver.

Doctors determined that neither surgery nor conventional chemotherapy was a suitable option.

According to the Press Association, as reported by LADBible, the decision was based on both the tumor’s location and her fragile health condition.

Her case was subsequently reviewed by specialists at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, who believed she might be a candidate for a new type of treatment.

A more precise treatment

The method, known as electrochemotherapy, combines a low dose of chemotherapy with electrical pulses.

Using robotic technology, doctors were able to place needles with a high degree of precision around the tumor.

According to Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, the increased accuracy may make it easier to treat patients whose tumors are located in difficult-to-reach areas or cannot be treated using traditional methods.

Significant results

Following the procedure, Brenda Iveson remains under hospital supervision. Scans show that her disease is stable.

She became the first patient in the United Kingdom to receive this robot-assisted treatment.

At the same time, the tumor has shrunk by approximately 80 percent since the procedure, according to LADBible.

Sources: LADBible and Press Association.

How green tea affects your body if you drink it every day

Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk

4. June, 2026

How green tea affects your body if you drink it every day

Green tea is one of the world’s most popular tea beverages and is consumed daily by millions of people.

According to several nutrition experts interviewed by Real Simple, drinking green tea every day may provide a range of health benefits that support both physical and cognitive health.

Few calories

Green tea contains very few calories but is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.

Plant compounds

Many of green tea’s health benefits are linked to plant compounds known as polyphenols, which occur naturally in the leaves.

Caffeine

Green tea contains caffeine, which may help increase energy levels and alertness throughout the day.

L-theanine

Green tea also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that, together with caffeine, has been associated with improved focus and mental sharpness.

Catechins

Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins, including EGCG, one of the most extensively studied compounds found in tea.

Cardiovascular health

Research suggests that green tea may have a positive impact on circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

Healthy blood pressure regulation

A study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences found that green tea may help lower blood pressure.

May support gut health

According to a study published in Molecules, the polyphenols in green tea may help support both the gut microbiome and the intestinal barrier.

More stable energy

Nutrition experts report that many people experience a steady and mild boost in energy when consuming green tea regularly.

Brain health

Daily consumption has been associated with positive effects on brain function and overall cognitive health.

Beneficial for the liver

Experts also highlight that green tea may help support liver health.

Lower risk of stroke

A study published in Nutrition found an association between moderate green tea consumption and a reduced risk of stroke.

One to two cups

Even drinking one to two cups per day may help increase antioxidant intake.

Three to four cups

According to experts, consuming three to four cups per day may be the level at which the benefits become most noticeable.

May affect iron absorption

Tannins in green tea can reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron, particularly in people with low iron stores.

Timing may matter

People with low iron levels are advised to drink green tea at least one hour before or after meals.

Too much caffeine may cause side effects

A high intake of green tea may lead to restlessness, sleep disturbances, headaches, or digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Decaffeinated green tea may be an option

For people who are sensitive to caffeine, decaffeinated green tea can be a suitable alternative.

Unsweetened green tea is recommended

Experts recommend choosing unsweetened varieties rather than products containing added sugar.

Lemon may improve antioxidant absorption

Adding lemon juice may help the body absorb some of the antioxidants found in green tea more effectively.

Brewing temperature matters

Using boiling water may reduce the concentration of catechins in green tea.

Hot water is recommended over boiling water

Green tea should ideally be brewed using water at approximately 71°C to 82°C (160 to 180 degrees F) to help preserve its beneficial compounds.

Sources: Real Simple, Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, Molecules, and Nutrition.

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Glaucoma

Cataracts

Macular degeneration

High cholesterol

Thyroid problems

Graves’ disease

Diabetes

Retinal migraine

Myasthenia gravis

Lupus

Multiple sclerosis

Stroke

Questions remain

New findings

More than just water

Several health benefits

May benefit heart health

Millions of patients studied

Fewer surgeries

Chemicals detected

Food contact risk

What consumers should check

Added sugar can affect cholesterol

Excess sugar is stored as fat in the liver

High triglycerides may harm blood vessels

Sugary foods can increase inflammation

Fruit sugar differs from added sugar

Blueberries are a healthier sweet option

Research links blueberries to healthier cholesterol levels

Fiber helps slow sugar absorption

Blueberries contain less sugar than many fruits

Soluble fiber supports heart health

Anthocyanin gives blueberries their color

One cup a day is recommended

A smarter way to focus

Benefits beyond productivity

A boost for confidence

Testing older adults

Dictation

A more precise treatment

Significant results

Few calories

Plant compounds

Caffeine

L-theanine

Catechins

Cardiovascular health

Healthy blood pressure regulation

May support gut health

More stable energy

Brain health

Beneficial for the liver

Lower risk of stroke

One to two cups

Three to four cups

May affect iron absorption

Timing may matter

Too much caffeine may cause side effects

Decaffeinated green tea may be an option

Unsweetened green tea is recommended

Lemon may improve antioxidant absorption

Brewing temperature matters

Hot water is recommended over boiling water

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